Meghalaya CM calls for integrated renewable energy strategy
Shillong, June 23
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday called for an integrated renewable energy strategy for the state, stressing the need to strengthen the implementation of the Centre's PM Surya Ghar--Muft Bijli Yojana while exploring innovative clean energy solutions suited to the state's geographical conditions.
Chairing a review meeting on the implementation of the flagship rooftop solar programme at the State Guest House in Shillong, Sangma directed officials to prepare a comprehensive roadmap to accelerate renewable energy adoption, improve consumer participation and strengthen awareness campaigns across the state.
The Chief Minister reviewed the progress of the PM Surya Ghar scheme, which aims to provide up to 300 units of free electricity every month to households through rooftop solar installations backed by central financial assistance of up to Rs 78,000.
During the meeting, officials apprised Sangma of the challenges affecting consumer uptake in Meghalaya, including higher installation costs arising from transportation expenses, difficult terrain and the relatively limited scale of rooftop solar deployment in the state.
Sangma stressed the need to make solar adoption more attractive for households by reducing payback periods and enhancing consumer benefits. He also underscored the importance of aligning the PM Surya Ghar scheme with the state's ongoing renewable energy initiatives, including the Chief Minister's Solar Mission.
Highlighting the role of energy storage, the Chief Minister advocated exploring battery-backed solar solutions to improve reliability and enable households to maximise the benefits of rooftop solar systems. He further directed departments to identify opportunities for expanding rooftop solar installations in government offices, schools, anganwadi centres and other public institutions by leveraging available central assistance.
The Chief Minister also called for greater public awareness and suggested involving educational institutions and youth groups in campaigns promoting renewable energy and energy conservation.
Emphasising long-term energy security, Sangma urged officials to explore decentralised renewable energy options such as biomass, biogas, micro-hydel projects and solar-powered community infrastructure, particularly for rural and remote areas.
The meeting concluded with directions to formulate a coordinated strategy aimed at reducing electricity costs, promoting clean energy adoption and strengthening Meghalaya's sustainable energy future.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Battery-backed solar makes so much sense for a state like Meghalaya with plenty of rain. But what about maintenance in remote villages? That's the real headache.
PM Surya Ghar scheme is good on paper, but Rs 78,000 subsidy might not cover costs in remote areas with difficult terrain. Need state-specific top-ups!
Why only solar? Meghalaya has so much potential for micro-hydel and biomass too! Glad CM mentioned those. Decentralised energy is the way forward for our Northeast.
Interesting to see renewable energy getting attention in Northeast India. The community-level approach with anganwadis and schools could create real impact. Hope other states take notes.
Reducing payback period is crucial for household adoption. In rural Meghalaya, people need to see benefits quickly. Awareness campaigns involving youth groups? Great idea.
Good to see state governments taking renewable energy seriously. But implementation is everything - need proper monitoring mechanisms. Also, what about power purchase agreements for excess generation?
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