Orb Energy, a leading player in India’s solar power sector, has inaugurated its first 35 MW (DC) ground-mounted solar park in Arsikere, Hassan district, Karnataka. Spanning 110 acres, this new facility is expected to generate 5.24 crore units of green energy annually, significantly cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 45,000 tons each year. This initiative is tailored to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region.
In a statement, Orb Energy outlined its ambitious plan to develop and commission approximately 400 MW of solar parks for SMEs across India by the end of the decade, with a projected investment of Rs 2,000 crore.
“With 27 MW (DC) already commissioned across 90 acres, we aim to complete our SME-centric solar park by the middle of the current financial year. Our innovative solar park model allows enterprises to purchase plots and own their solar sub-arrays within the park. This concept has been highly successful among SMEs in Karnataka,” the company said.
To facilitate SME participation, Orb Energy has introduced a unique collateral-free, in-house financing facility. This five-year financing option enables SMEs to adopt off-site solar solutions swiftly and economically. According to Orb Energy, owners of off-site solar systems can expect electricity costs to drop to approximately Rs 3.5-4.0 per unit over the system’s lifetime, significantly lower than the current grid tariff rates of Rs 8-9 per unit.
This setup benefits both distribution companies (discoms) and enterprises by utilizing existing infrastructure for increased electricity generation, thereby addressing growing demand while enhancing SME competitiveness.
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Damian Miller, Co-Founder and CEO of Orb Energy, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “We recognized that many SMEs with significant power needs and limited roof space required an off-site solar solution. This unique solar park model enables SMEs to buy their own plots and solar sub-arrays. This innovative approach has been embraced by SMEs across various industries, such as foundries, die-cast companies, precision components, and malls, empowering them to take control of their rising electricity bills and enhance their competitiveness.”
Miller also announced plans for a second solar park in Karnataka to further support their SME clients, demonstrating Orb Energy’s commitment to expanding its sustainable energy solutions for businesses across India.
This solar park not only supports SMEs by providing a cost-effective and sustainable energy solution but also contributes to India’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy. With this development, Orb Energy is poised to play a crucial role in the transition to greener energy sources for Indian enterprises.