Uttarakhand’s green energy ambitions have received a significant boost with the government’s recent approval of five solar power plants with a combined capacity of 5,265 kilowatts. This development falls under the Chief Minister Solar Self-Employment Scheme, representing the state’s strong commitment to clean and sustainable energy sources. The move aligns with Uttarakhand’s ongoing efforts to promote solar power and bolster its position as a leader in the renewable energy sector.
The Uttarakhand State Solar Policy-2023, officially announced by the government, paved the way for these initiatives. In line with this policy, the Uttarakhand Renewable Energy Development Agency (UREDA) opened applications for the Type-II category on July 20, 2023, as detailed in an official statement.
R. Meenakshi Sundaram, Secretary of Energy and Alternative Energy, who chairs the State Level Monitoring Committee, has confirmed the approval of five projects with a total capacity of 5,265 kilowatts. These projects are set to inject an estimated investment of Rs 24 crore into the state’s solar energy sector, furthering the growth of sustainable energy solutions. This move is part of Uttarakhand’s comprehensive approach to promoting solar power and energy-efficient options, particularly through the Chief Minister Solar Self-Employment Scheme.
Uttarakhand’s commitment to green energy extends beyond these projects, encompassing the Mukhyamantri Solar Swarozgar Yojana, which encourages rooftop solar power plant installations for domestic consumers, in collaboration with the Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited. These initiatives are complemented by subsidies from both the Central and State Governments, solidifying Uttarakhand’s role as a pioneer in sustainable energy solutions.