NTPC and 247Solar launch hybrid solar project for round-the-clock power

NTPC Limited and 247Solar have launched India’s first commercial hybrid solar project at Bhadla Solar Park. The ~1MW system integrates a 400-kW modular 247Solar Plant with several hundred kilowatts of photovoltaic solar, using concentrated solar power technology to deliver uninterrupted power. The Virginia-based company signed the 25-year power purchase agreement with India's largest electric utility on October 15. The partners selected the site at Rajasthan’s Bhadla Solar Park, one of the world’s largest solar hubs, for its abundant sunshine and easy interconnection for offtake.

How the system works

The system captures the sun’s heat with mirrors focused on towers. It stores this heat for up to 20 hours in inexpensive ceramic pellets. Hot air is then used to generate electricity around the clock with unique turbines that operate without combustion under normal conditions.

The technology can provide heat up to 1,000C (more than 1,800F) for industrial processes. If stored heat runs low, the turbines can switch to run on backup fuels like natural gas, green hydrogen, or diesel. This allows the plant to keep producing power without interruption.

Strategic goals and implications

NTPC aims to test whether this system can reduce its reliance on coal-fired power generation. The project is designed to close the gap left by conventional solar and wind when the sun sets or during bad weather. This demonstration is an early step toward providing round-the-clock clean power for industry and residents.

Success would give NTPC a new tool to meet growing power demand while cutting costs and carbon emissions. Officials said the project, if successful, would likely enable expansion of 247 Solar’s technology across India. It would also position Rajasthan as a proving ground for the technology. Other countries with similar grid problems will watch India's roadmap for addressing the intermittency gap of conventional PV solar without coal.

Company and technology background

247Solar, founded by Bruce Anderson, originated from MIT. The company claims its simplified, modular, and scalable technology offers multiple benefits compared to traditional systems.

The Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation Limited approved preliminary studies, site surveys, and structural tests for the project. The company is backed by a deep intellectual property portfolio and states its systems help customers reach net-zero goals with strong economics. Bruce Anderson said, "India’s rapid growth plainly requires more clean, reliable and affordable energy. Our system can help meet that demand."

Officials said the project, if successful, would likely enable expansion of 247Solar’s technology across India.