Is Tripura Shifting to Solar Energy to Secure Future Power Needs?
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Synopsis
In a bold move towards sustainability, Tripura is transitioning to solar energy to address its power challenges. Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath reveals plans for extensive solar installations and revitalization of existing hydel projects, ensuring a greener, more reliable energy future for the state.
Key Takeaways
- Tripura is transitioning to solar energy to meet future electricity demands.
- Over 29 MW of solar power capacity has already been installed in the state.
- Plans are in place to restore the Dumbur hydel power plant.
- The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana aims for widespread solar panel installation.
- Residents can benefit financially from solar energy through reduced bills and income from installations.
Agartala, Sep 6 (NationPress) The Power Minister of Tripura, Ratan Lal Nath, declared on Saturday that the state is embarking on a significant transition towards solar energy to fulfill its future electricity requirements as natural gas reserves continue to dwindle.
Nath, speaking at an awareness camp regarding the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana in Kailashahar, Unakoti District, mentioned that over the past seven years, starting from 2018, the Power Department has established numerous small-scale solar power installations with a total generation capacity of 29 MW.
The Minister emphasized that the government has resolved to transition all government offices to operate on solar energy. He stated that prior to 2018, there were 721,000 electricity consumers, and this number has now surged to 1,038,000.
Additionally, he revealed that the state power department is actively working to restore the Dumbur hydel power plant located in Gomati district to produce 11 MW of electricity.
The Dumbur hydel power project, which began operations in 1976 with an initial capacity of 10 MW, has seen its output diminish in recent years to between 2 and 3 MW. Following the devastating floods of last year, the project suffered significant damage, halting its generation capacity.
An expert team from the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) Ltd has conducted a study aimed at reviving the Dumbur hydroelectric project. The Minister highlighted that regardless of political affiliations, development should benefit everyone.
The PM Surya Ghar Scheme was initiated on February 13, 2024. Nath pointed out that electricity is primarily generated from gas, air, water, and sunlight, noting that in Tripura, the majority of power comes from natural gas.
He cautioned that the available gas is gradually depleting and will eventually be exhausted, leading to reduced output from gas-based projects such as Rukhia, Palatana, Ramchandra Nagar, and Monarchak.
“We need to prepare for the future, which is why both the state and central governments are prioritizing solar energy. Under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, solar panels can be installed on rooftops and open land, virtually anywhere. This installation not only reduces electricity bills but also allows individuals to earn income by setting up small solar power plants on their properties,” the Minister explained.
The Tripura State Electricity Corporation is conducting awareness camps statewide to promote the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
“It is essential for everyone to participate. I want to emphasize that this is a monumental initiative. With 1 million consumers, we aim to install solar panels in 50,000 households, generating a total of 150 MW from solar energy,” he added.
Present at the event were Congress MLA and former Minister Birajit Sinha, TSECL Managing Director Biswajit Basu, along with many others.
Point of View
Tripura's shift towards solar energy highlights a growing trend in renewable energy adoption across India. As regions grapple with depleting fossil fuel reserves, this initiative not only aligns with national sustainability goals but also demonstrates a commitment to energy independence. The collaborative efforts of state and central governments in promoting renewable energy projects are crucial for a greener future.
NationPress
06/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana?
The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a government initiative aimed at promoting the installation of solar panels to ensure sustainable electricity generation and reduce dependency on non-renewable energy sources.
How much solar power capacity is Tripura currently utilizing?
As of now, Tripura has solar power installations that generate a total capacity of 29 MW, with plans for significant expansion under new initiatives.
What happened to the Dumbur hydel power plant?
The Dumbur hydel power plant, originally commissioned in 1976, saw its generation capacity decline due to damage from floods and aging infrastructure. Efforts are underway to restore its capacity to 11 MW.
How many electricity consumers are there in Tripura?
Tripura currently has approximately 1.038 million electricity consumers, an increase from 721,000 before 2018.
What are the benefits of solar energy for households?
Households can experience reduced electricity bills and also have the opportunity to earn income by installing small solar power plants on their premises.
