Himachal Pradesh CM Advocates Enhanced Solar Power Generation

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stressed the necessity of boosting solar power. During a Power Department meeting, he highlighted ongoing projects aiming to harness 50 MW of solar energy and promoted youth involvement in solar ventures, emphasizing green initiatives to combat climate change.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu underscored the urgent need to ramp up solar power generation in the state. Chairing a meeting with senior officials from the Power Department on Wednesday, he highlighted the state's active steps towards this goal.

Sukhu noted the establishment of a 32 MW solar power project in Pekhubela, Una district. He also mentioned ongoing projects that include a 10 MW solar power facility in Kutlehar and a 5 MW project in Gagret constituencies. These initiatives are expected to collectively harness around 50 MW of solar energy within the next six months.

The Chief Minister's Office issued a statement urging officers to expedite these projects and scout for new locations for additional solar facilities. Sukhu emphasized the importance of involving local youth in the solar sector for livelihood opportunities, allocating these projects to bona fide Himachalis. He stressed the increasing power demand and the necessity of solar energy alongside hydel power, pointing out its environmental benefits and minimal maintenance.

CM Sukhu highlighted that climate change remains a significant challenge and advocated for green initiatives to mitigate its effects. He reiterated the state government's commitment to promoting green industries and achieving the goal of making Himachal Pradesh a green energy state by 31st March 2026. Efforts include converting the Himachal Road Transport Corporation's bus fleet to e-buses, the statement added.