Assam sets eyes on generating 1,000 MW solar power: Minister Bimal Borah

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: State Power Minister Bimal Borah today laid stress on achieving self-sufficiency in solar energy. He said that a leap forward in this regard would be the 70-MW solar park project in Amguri. Assam's first solar park will be partially commissioned on May 31.

Talking to media persons, minister Borah said that the Assam Government was committed to improving the power scenario in the State and achieving self-sufficiency in solar energy. For this, the government had taken many steps. Borah said, "Under the Assam Solar Energy Policy, 2017, 1,000 MW solar power will be generated within three years. Steps will be taken for implementing solar power projects on unutilized government land.

"There are already a few solar power projects in the State like the 25-MW project in Boko, 25-MW project in Udalguri, 10-MW project in Samuguri, the 25-MW project in Cachar and the 5-MW project in Tezpur. The Tezpur Patanjali production unit also has a 4-MW solar power project.

"Assam is generating 35-MW power through roof-top solar projects. For generating of 1 MW solar power, 13 bighas of land are needed. The government is now seeking land for solar power generation. Also, a survey is being carried out to ascertain the feasibility of roof-top solar projects in government offices. If feasible, roof-top solar projects will be set up in government offices for power generation."

Borah said that under the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana-II, the Assam Government would undertake solar power projects in remote rural areas, sar areas and hilly areas where it was difficult to lay power cables. For the implementation of this scheme, the Centre has sanctioned Rs 1,800 crore fund to Assam. The objective is to ensure 100 per cent electrification.

"The State Government aims to provide 24X7 electricity to all within the next three years. The Centre has approved Rs 8,000 crore for using smart meters and distribution line strengthening work," said the minister.

He expressed satisfaction at the fact that revenue collection by the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) was cent per cent due to which the APDCL was finally making profit. "APDCL's Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) loss has now reduced to half," he added.

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