Srinagar, Mar 02: Jammu and Kashmir Government Launches Rooftop Solarisation Project to Promote Renewable Energy
In a strategic move aimed at promoting renewable energy and reducing dependence on conventional electricity sources, the Jammu and Kashmir government has initiated the rooftop solarisation project, with registrations now open.
The ambitious project seeks to install solar panels on the rooftops of residential, commercial, and institutional buildings across the union territory, marking a significant step towards self-reliance in electricity generation, as highlighted by Commissioner Secretary of Science and Technology, SauravBhagat.
Bhagat emphasized that the project’s primary objective is to empower the people of Jammu and Kashmir in electricity production. The new solar panels, he stated, boast higher efficiency, generating seven times more electricity than their predecessors. Additionally, the project will be grid-connected, enabling surplus electricity to be transferred to the grid, thereby allowing consumers to earn revenue.
Furthermore, the project offers attractive financial incentives for consumers, including subsidies and low-interest loans. The subsidy ranges from 40% for capacities up to 3 kW, 20% for capacities between 3-10 kW, and 10% for capacities ranging from 10-500 kW. Loans will be available at a nominal interest rate of 6% for a period of 15 years.
Principal Secretary of Power Development Department (PDD), Rajesh Prasad, highlighted the pivotal role of Power Discoms in the project’s implementation and operation. Discoms will conduct technical feasibility assessments of rooftops upon consumer registration, sanction net metering, and integrate the system with meters once installed by vendors.
Registrations for the project are currently open, with vendor empanelment expected soon, according to Prasad.
The rooftop solarisation project is anticipated to invigorate the green energy sector in Jammu and Kashmir and contribute significantly to the national goal of achieving 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022. Moreover, it is poised to mitigate the carbon footprint while enhancing the overall quality of life for the residents of Jammu and Kashmir.
