Himachal CM Announces Tenders for 72 MW Solar Projects

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Himachal CM Announces Tenders for 72 MW Solar Projects

Synopsis

Himachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu has revealed the government's initiative to harness extensive green energy by inviting tenders for seven solar power projects totaling 72 MW, alongside plans for further development and environmental sustainability.

Key Takeaways

  • Tenders issued for 72 MW solar projects.
  • Plans for 200 Green Panchayats with solar plants.
  • Significant revenue from existing projects.
  • Goal to make Himachal Pradesh a Green Energy leader by 2026.
  • Installation of solar systems in state ashrams and schools.

Shimla, Jan 13 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Sukhu, announced on Monday that the state government is focused on extensively utilizing green energy. He stated that tenders have been issued for the establishment of seven solar power projects totaling 72 MW, which are currently under evaluation.

The allocation of work to selected companies is expected to happen within this month. Additionally, surveys and assessments for eight more projects with a capacity of 325 MW are actively underway.

In his remarks, he highlighted that for the first time, the government plans to develop 200 panchayats as 'Green Panchayats', where 200 KV ground-mounted solar power plants will be set up. The revenue generated from these installations will be directed towards the development projects of the respective panchayats.

The Chief Minister further mentioned that the 32 MW Pekhubela Solar Power Project in the Una district was inaugurated on April 15, 2024, achieving an impressive generation of 34.19 million units of electricity, resulting in an income of Rs 10.16 crore over six and a half months since April of the previous year.

Moreover, a 5 MW solar project in Bhanjal, Una district, commenced on November 30, 2024, while the construction of a 10 MW Aghlaur Solar Power Project is also projected for completion within this month.

Sukhvinder Sukhu emphasized that the government is making strides towards establishing Himachal Pradesh as the nation's first 'Green Energy' state by 2026, ensuring that environmental integrity is maintained.

He added that optimizing green energy will not only aid in environmental preservation but also contribute to a reduction in carbon emissions.

These renewable energy sources are sustainable and will not deplete, thereby securing energy availability for future generations and minimizing the adverse impacts of climate change.

Additionally, a draft detailed project report for a two-tonne per day compressed bio-gas plant has been prepared.

Plans are also in place for the installation of grid-connected rooftop solar systems and water heating solutions at Bal and Balika Ashrams, Vridha Ashrams, and Rajiv Gandhi Model Day-Boarding schools throughout the state.