Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday launched a series of development projects during his visit to Kochi, including the foundation stone for a 50 MW floating solar power project at West Kallada aimed at strengthening renewable energy generation in the state.

Speaking at the event, Modi said Kerala’s vast network of reservoirs, dams, lakes, and backwaters provides immense potential for floating solar power. He noted that such projects would help the state move further ahead in clean energy while avoiding additional land use. Floating solar installations can also reduce water evaporation and improve panel efficiency due to the natural cooling effect of water.

The Prime Minister also linked India’s ambitions in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and semiconductors with the growing need for reliable and sustainable energy infrastructure.

Kerala has already emerged as a leader in floating solar projects. Among the notable installations is the 101.6 MW floating solar plant in Kayamkulam developed by Tata Power Solar Systems. The project was built on a 350-acre water body despite challenges such as high salinity and fluctuating water depths.