Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Of Solar Power Plant in India: A Case Study Of 300 Mw Solar PV Power Project at Bhadla Solar Park, Phase III
Keywords:
Socio-economic Impact, Environmental Sustainability, Renewable Energy, Bhadla Solar Park, Solar Power Plant, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)Abstract
The proliferation of renewable energy has necessitated the inclusion of solar energy in the list of means of sustainable development in India. The current research examined the environmental and socio-economic impacts of the 300 MW Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Project at Bhadla Solar Park, Phase III, Rajasthan using Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design where 150 respondents were selected along with observation points. Information was obtained from respondents using structured questionnaire, field observation, and secondary sources. It was evident that 61.3% of the project area consisted of barren or wasteland, indicating the right choice of site selection with minimal damage to agricultural land or natural habitats. Environmental assessment identified positive impacts of the project on the quality of air (78.7%), water resources (74.7%), soil quality (73.3%), and noise environment (70.0%) while minimal negative impact was identified on the biodiversity. Of the measures for mitigation of environmental impact, it was noted that occupational safety (81.3%) and waste management (78.7%) were the most effective measures. It is also evident that there are notable socio-economic impacts of the project including provision of employment (81.3%), raising environmental awareness (76.0%), enhancing local infrastructure (74.7%) and improving household income (72.0%). In conclusion, the 300 MW Solar PV Power Project had an admirable balance between energy production, environmental conservation, and socio-economic benefits. Thus, it can be concluded that EIA is very important in ensuring the sustainability of solar energy projects in India.
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