indore-indias-cleanest-city-taps-solar-power-for-drinking-water

Indore, Madhya Pradesh—already recognized as India’s cleanest city for eight consecutive years—is set to become the first city in the country to supply drinking water using electricity generated from solar power.

A 60 MW solar power plant, built across 220 acres in Jalud village, Khargone district, will power the pumps that draw Narmada River water and transport it over 80 km to Indore. The project is primarily funded through ₹244 crore raised via green bonds issued by the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC)—making it the first renewable energy initiative in India financed by an urban local body through green bonds. The total project cost is ₹308 crore.

The plant is expected to begin operations in November 2025, and is projected to reduce IMC’s electricity costs by nearly ₹5 crore per month, bringing down its current expenditure from ₹25 crore to around ₹20 crore.

This pioneering initiative not only strengthens Indore’s reputation for urban sustainability and innovation, but also aligns with the goals of the Swachh Bharat Mission, promoting clean energy, efficient resource use, and environmentally responsible urban infrastructure.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.