Himachal Pins Hopes On New Solar Projects To Boost RE

Himachal Pines Hopes On New Solar Projects To Boost RE

Himachal Pradesh has been pushing utility-scale solar power projects. The state established a 32 MW solar power project. While a 5 MW solar project is under construction in Kutlehar and Gagret, stated Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukh. In a recent meeting with senior officials of state Power Department, the CM emphasised on the need to enhance the solar power generation in the State.

As per the statement released by the CMO, Himachal Pradesh would be in a position to harness around 50 MW solar energy in the coming six months. Directions were given to the officers to expedite the ongoing solar power projects and commission these projects at the earliest besides identifying the new sites to set up solar power projects.

Ministry of New & Renewable Energy report , as of June, 2024, Himachal has installed 11389.93 MW of renewable energy. Of this, 129 MW is installed solar. 

In the said meeting, the CM also encouraged the youth to join the solar power generation sector to earn livelihood for themselves as  projects would be allotted to local Himachali.

He said that the power demand was increasing day by day and keeping this in view the solar power should also be harnessed alongside the hydel power. Solar energy is a clean and renewable source, reducing carbon emission and minimizes the reliance on fossil fuels. These solar power projects also need minimal maintenance besides longer life span, said the Chief Minister.

He also emphasised that climate change was the biggest challenge and green initiatives can play a pivotal role in mitigating the effects of global warming. Reiterated the state government’s commitment to promote green industry to help in mitigating the climate change impact and would play an important role in realizing the government’s goal of making Himachal Pradesh a green energy State by 31st March, 2026. 

Besides, the state government has also been promoting e-vehicles in the state and it has been decided to convert the entire fleet of HRTC buses with e-buses.