Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP), the Chhattisgarh-based arm of the state-run Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), will install the state's first 15-megawatt (MW) floating solar project in its Maroda-1 reservoir to improve its carbon footprint.

The steel major is undertaking various projects to reduce carbon emissions, conserve energy, and promote renewable energy.

“In a major step towards this, Bhilai Steel Plant has taken up the project of installation of a 15 MW capacity floating solar plant in its Maroda-1 reservoir,” a BSP spokesperson said.

The project is being implemented through NTPC-SAIL Power Supply Company Limited (NSPCL), a 50:50 joint venture company of National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) and SAIL. The solar plant will be set up in Durg district.

The Maroda reservoir is spread across 2.1 square kilometers with a water storage capacity of 19 cubic milimetres (MM3). The water stored in the Maroda-I reservoir not only feeds the plant but also the township.