Uttarakhand surpasses 1 GW milestone in solar energy installation
Dehradun, Feb 18
Uttarakhand has crossed the milestone of 1 gigawatt of installed solar power capacity, marking a significant step in the state's push towards renewable energy and sustainable development.
According to official figures, the total installed solar capacity in the state has reached about 1,027.87 megawatts, reflecting steady progress in expanding clean energy infrastructure.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the achievement aligns with the renewable energy vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the broader goal of building an "Atmanirbhar Bharat" through green energy initiatives. He noted that coordinated efforts between Central schemes and state programmes have helped generate self-employment opportunities for youth and local entrepreneurs.
Officials said the milestone has been achieved through a mix of grid-connected rooftop systems, ground-mounted solar plants, installations on government buildings, solar pumps for agriculture, and projects in the commercial and industrial sectors.
Of the total installed capacity, about 397 MW comes from ground-mounted projects, 241 MW from rooftop solar installations under the PM Surya Ghar scheme, 137 MW under the Chief Minister Solar Self-Employment Scheme, and 110 MW through commercial net metering. Additional contributions include 51 MW from captive solar plants, 37 MW from canal-top and canal-bank projects, and 26 MW installed on government buildings.
Work is also underway on additional projects, including over 100 MW under the Chief Minister Solar Self-Employment Scheme, 30 MW of captive solar capacity and 13.5 MW on government facilities.
The Uttarakhand Renewable Energy Development Agency has played a key role in implementing solar projects across the state, particularly in remote and mountainous areas, through technical support, awareness campaigns and execution of government schemes.
Officials said supportive policies, subsidies, simplified approval procedures and incentives for private investment have helped accelerate solar adoption in the state. The expansion of solar capacity is expected to reduce carbon emissions, strengthen energy security and generate local employment.
The state government aims to further increase solar installations, expand access in remote regions and enhance public participation in clean energy initiatives.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Great achievement! The breakdown of where the power comes from is very informative. The PM Surya Ghar scheme seems to be a major driver. More awareness is needed so middle-class families in cities also adopt rooftop solar.
While this is a good milestone, I hope the focus is also on maintaining this infrastructure long-term. Solar panels in remote, hilly areas face harsh weather. The real test is sustainable operation over 10-15 years.
As someone who has visited Uttarakhand, reliable power in remote villages can transform lives. Solar energy for schools, health centres, and small businesses is a game-changer for development. Well done!
The self-employment angle is crucial. Training local youth to install and maintain these systems creates a green economy. This is true Atmanirbharta. More states should have such targeted schemes.
Canal-top solar is a smart use of space! Saves water from evaporation and generates power. Hope to see this replicated across irrigation canals in Punjab and Haryana as well. Dual benefit.
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