Project overview 

ReNew’s Round-the-Clock (RTC) Hybrid Renewable Energy Project is a landmark initiative aimed at delivering uninterrupted, 24/7 clean power by integrating wind, solar, and battery storage. With a total capacity of 3.3 GW spread across the Indian states of Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, the project combines three wind farms, a solar park, and a 100 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to address the intermittency challenges traditionally associated with renewable energy. This innovative model is designed to provide firm and dispatchable renewable power, supporting India’s ambitious goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030.

Approach 

ReNew’s strategy involved deploying a geographically diversified portfolio of assets to optimize weather variability across regions and enhance overall reliability. Solar generation in high-irradiance zones was paired with wind generation in high-wind corridors to create complementary production profiles and achieve an 80% plant load factor. A 100 MWh BESS was integrated to store surplus energy and dispatch power during low-generation periods.

The project uses advanced technologies, including high-capacity wind turbines (exceeding 3 MW) and high-efficiency solar modules. It is backed by a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the central-government-backed Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), which offtakes the entire output as stable, baseload renewable power. ReNew also invested in robust inter-state grid integration infrastructure and coordinated with local authorities to align land use and community development priorities with the project rollout. 

Business and economic value 

Having developed India’s first RTC renewable energy project, ReNew has established a new benchmark for the economic viability of large-scale, firm renewable power. By offering 24/7 clean energy, the project addresses one of the primary barriers to renewable adoption: reliability. RTC projects reduce the need for expensive grid balancing services, saving utilities and grid operators millions annually in backup costs.

The project’s long-term PPA ensures predictable revenue streams, enhancing bankability and enabling access to low-cost debt. ReNew secured over US$1 billion in project financing—the largest single clean energy deal in India to date—from a consortium of 16 international lenders for the 1,300 MW mixed-technology RTC project. ReNew’s RTC model also delivers power at significantly lower costs than conventional energy sources: the tariff begins at INR 2.90/kWh in year one and averages around INR 3.5–3.6/kWh over 25 years—well below the typical cost of thermal, hydro, or nuclear power in India (INR 4–6/kWh).

The project generated approximately 2,000 direct and 10,000 indirect jobs during the construction phase, with 300 ongoing operational roles, contributing to local employment across the three states. Beyond employment, ReNew implemented targeted community development programs that have benefited approximately 40,000 people. Initiatives included solar electrification and computer labs in schools; solar energy systems in hospitals; infrastructure for water conservation and piped water supply; and women’s empowerment programs through self-help groups, skill-building, and solar street lighting to improve safety and mobility.

References: 

1. ReNew Power signs India’s first Round-the-Clock PPA with SECI - ReNew
2. ReNew secures over $1 billion project finance for 1,300 MW RTC renewable energy project - ReNew
3. Delivering Power Round the Clock - ReNew Sustainability Report.
4. India Energy Outlook 2023 - International Energy Agency
5. Achievements - Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) Government of India