Dharech becomes Himachal's first 'green panchayat'
Shimla, April 27
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday inaugurated a 500-KW solar power project in the Dharech gram panchayat in the Kasumpti Assembly constituency in Shimla district.
He said that this was one of the significant steps of the government towards sustainable development.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that with this achievement, Dharech has become Himachal Pradesh's first 'green panchayat'.
Constructed at an approximate cost of Rs 1.94 crore, the project commenced in January 2025 and was successfully connected to the electricity grid on March 30, 2026.
The Chief Minister said that the solar power plant was generating around 3,000 units of clean energy per day, with an estimated annual production of nearly eight lakh units.
As per the agreement, the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Ltd will purchase this electricity at a rate of Rs 3.50 per unit. This is expected to generate a steady annual income of about Rs 28 lakh for the gram panchayat, supporting its financial sustainability.
Chief Minister Sukhu said that this initiative was an inclusive and welfare-oriented model that would strengthen rural self-reliance. The revenue generated from the project would be distributed in a balanced manner, with 30 per cent allocated for development works of the gram panchayat, 20 per cent for the welfare of orphans and widows, 20 per cent to the state government, 10 per cent to Himurja and the remaining 20 per cent for operation and maintenance of Himurja.
He said that this project, with an estimated lifespan of 25 years, is an important initiative towards promoting sustainable development, clean energy and rural empowerment in the state. It will directly benefit local people and help improve their economic condition, an official statement issued by the state government said.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While this is a good step, I have some concerns. Rs 1.94 crore for a 500 KW plant seems a bit high. Also, the electricity board buying at Rs 3.50 per unit is decent but will this truly sustain the panchayat long-term? Need to see the actual maintenance costs over 25 years. Hope it's not just another photo-op.
Finally, some concrete action on renewable energy in Himachal! Dharech setting an example for the entire state. The 30% going to panchayat development is smart — ensures local infrastructure benefits. Proud moment for the community! 👏
Good to see the CM handing over benefits to the grassroots. But as a local from Shimla, I wish they had involved the youth in planning and execution. Many educated unemployed here could have been trained for maintenance. Still, better late than never for green energy in our hills.
Excellent example of decentralized renewable energy. 28 lakh rupees annual income for a panchayat is life-changing for such a small community. I work in energy policy in the UK, and this kind of model is exactly what rural areas need globally. Well done, Himachal! 🇮🇳
Really happy to see sustainable development reaching the village level. But I'm curious — what happens after 25 years? The panels will need replacement, and who bears that cost? Also, hope the project isn't just for Shimla district but replicated across all panchayats soon.
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