Dharech Gram Panchayat in Shimla becomes Himachal'€™s first 'green panchayat'

He emphasised that it was one of the significant steps of the present state government towards sustainable development and added that with this achievement, Dharech has become Himachal Pradeshs first green panchayat, a statement issued here said. The chief minister informed 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.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday inaugurated a 500 KW solar power project at Dharech Gram Panchayat of Kasumpti Assembly Constituency in Shimla district. He emphasised that it was one of the significant steps of the present state government towards sustainable development and added that with this achievement, Dharech has become Himachal Pradesh's first 'green panchayat', a statement issued here said. Constructed at an approximate cost of Rs 1.94 crore, the project commenced in January 2025 and was connected to the electricity grid on March 30, 2026. 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. The chief minister informed 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. According to the agreement, the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited 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, thereby supporting its financial sustainability. 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.