Agartala, Jan 3 (NationPress) Tripura is making significant strides towards achieving power self-sufficiency by embracing innovative technologies, including the generation of hydrokinetic power from flowing rivers and extensive rooftop solar projects, as stated by Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Saturday.

During the ‘Bhoomi Pujan’ (inauguration) ceremony of the new Super Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) in Banamalipur, the Minister revealed that the Power Department aims to produce 185 MW of electricity using Hydrokinetic Turbine Technology, with 10 river sites already selected throughout the state.

Emphasizing the necessity of adopting new technologies, Nath mentioned that development is intrinsically linked to the availability of electricity.

“If we do not embrace new technology, we risk falling behind. Our government is dedicated to optimizing power usage and implementing modern solutions,” he asserted.

The Minister announced that Rs 12.33 crore will be allocated for the Super ECBC building, one of five similar initiatives being developed nationwide to enhance energy efficiency.

Currently, Tripura requires approximately 378 MW of electricity during peak hours, a figure expected to escalate to 650 MW by 2031.

As of now, the state provides an average of 23 hours and 54 minutes of power supply, albeit with occasional disruptions, he noted, adding that the number of electricity consumers has surged to 10.57 lakh, up from 7.21 lakh in 2018, indicating significant development.

Highlighting a strong push for solar energy under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, Nath explained that if five lakh households install 2 kW rooftop solar panels, Tripura could potentially generate 1,000 MW of power daily, greatly enhancing self-reliance and power independence.

Additionally, the Power Department is in the process of installing solar systems in 2,000 government buildings, a project anticipated to conclude next year, producing 80 MW of electricity.

So far, 15,000 consumers have set up rooftop solar systems, yielding 6 MW of power, he added.

Pointing out the state's shift away from depleting gas reserves, the Minister stated that hydrokinetic power presents immense potential.

He disclosed that the identified river sites include Chakmaghat, Maharani, Dumbur, Natunbazar, Kalsi, Manu, Kulai, Feni, Dhalai, and Sangan in Ampi, Lakhipur, with project work slated to commence next month.

Present at the event were Rajya Sabha member Rajib Bhattacharjee, Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor Dipak Majumder, and other distinguished guests.