₹750 Cr Budget Allocation In J&K Budget To Solarize Govt Buildings

In Jammu and Kashmir’s (J&K) first budget as an elected government in seven years, Chief Minister and Finance Minister Omar Abdullah outlined plans to enhance the state’s solar potential. “We are promoting rooftop solar installations under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. The solarization of 22,494 government buildings, with a total capacity of 314 MW, is to be completed by December 2025”, said Abdullah.

He mentioned in the budget that the J&K government considers the power sector as a top priority. While sharing the government’s two-fold vision, he stated the state’s goals: “to ensure 24×7 reliable and affordable electricity for all households by 2027-28.” With a high focus on renewable energy.

Subsidies And Policies

The government budget also elaborated on its plans to provide subsidies, stating, “To accelerate adoption, J&K will offer additional subsidies, lowering consumer power costs and ensuring long-term financial stability for DISCOMs. Under the PM KUSUM Yojana, 5,000 solar agriculture pumps will be installed. Additionally, seven new small solar projects with an aggregate capacity of 32.25 MW are to be completed this year.”

To provide financial relief and energy security to the most vulnerable, the budget proposed, “Providing 200 units of free electricity per month to all Antyodaya families in Jammu & Kashmir. Integrated with the PM Suryaghar Bijli Yojana, this initiative will support the installation of grid-connected solar systems, ensuring power generation and eliminating electricity bills. With an investment of ₹750 crore spread over five years, this step will also reduce AT&C losses and promote sustainable energy. “

The move has been long in coming, and J&K will hope to make quick progress now that the situation is normal. With significant plans also being made in neighboring Ladakh, a strong uptake in power demand in the J&K region will support that project as well possibly.