Himachal CM Announces 72 MW Solar Power from Seven Projects This Year

Synopsis

Himachal Pradesh aims to harness 72 MW of solar power through seven projects by the end of the year, as announced by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu. Projects are underway in Una and Solan districts, with a commitment to becoming the first 'Green Energy' state in India by 2026.

Key Takeaways

Seven projects to generate 72 MW of solar power.
Projects located in Una and Solan districts.
Government aims for Himachal to be a 'Green Energy' state by 2026.
Surveys for eight additional projects with 325 MW capacity.
Focus on green hydrogen energy development.

Shimla, Feb 12 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Sukhu, announced on Wednesday that the state will harness 72 MW of solar power through seven projects by the end of this year.

The Himachal Pradesh Power Corp Ltd has begun construction on two projects in the Una district: one with a capacity of 12 MW at Gondpur Bulla and another with 11 MW at Lamlahri Uparli.

Three projects are currently underway in the Solan district, including a 13 MW project at Saned in Nalagarh, an 8 MW project at Bara Barot, and another 13 MW project at Dabhota Majra.

A tender for a 9 MW project at Dabhota will be awarded soon, with construction expected to commence shortly.

Additionally, the tender process for a 6 MW solar project at Tihra Khas in the Una district has started and is anticipated to be awarded this month.

The Chief Minister highlighted the government’s dedication to enhancing solar energy production. Surveys are currently in progress for eight more projects with a total capacity of 325 MW.

Once the detailed project reports (DPRs) are finalized, construction on these solar initiatives will begin, he noted.

“The government aims to establish Himachal Pradesh as the first ‘Green Energy’ state in the nation by 2026, focusing on environmental preservation and sustainability. Harnessing green energy is vital for environmental protection and reducing carbon emissions. Renewable energy sources are limitless, ensuring energy availability for future generations and playing a key role in combating climate change,” stated the Chief Minister.

A 32 MW solar power project at Pekhubela in Una district was inaugurated on April 15, 2024. This project has produced 48 million units of electricity, generating revenue of Rs 14 crore until January 31.

Moreover, a 5 MW solar power project at Bhanjal in Una district started operations on November 30, 2024. The construction of a 10 MW solar project at Aghlaur is expected to be completed this month.

The government is also prioritizing green hydrogen energy. A 1 MW green hydrogen project has commenced in Nalagarh, Solan district, in partnership with Oil India Limited, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU).