Assam Secretariat Becomes India’s First Green State Government Headquarters

The Assam Secretariat has recently been inaugurated as India’s first green state government headquarters with the launch of a 2.5 MW solar power project. 

This initiative is part of a broader effort to incorporate eco-friendly measures such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient lighting systems. These steps aim to reduce the carbon footprint, promote renewable energy, and enhance resource efficiency within the government premises.

The building's design adheres to green building standards, utilising sustainable materials, effective waste management practices, and water conservation techniques. The rooftop solar panels generate a substantial portion of the building's electricity needs, significantly decreasing reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Additionally, a rainwater harvesting system conserves water for various non-potable uses within the premises.

The project is a grid-connected rooftop solar power plant, installed for INR 12.5 crore, and is expected to save INR 30 lakh in electricity bills each month. 

"Today, we took a giant leap forward in our goal to become a Net-Zero Govt, as I inaugurated a 2.5 MW solar project in Janata Bhawan, making #AssamGreenSecretariat, India's first green secretariat," announced Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on X after the inauguration.

The Chief Minister also revealed plans of administration stating that all official complexes in the state will be equipped with solar panels, starting with medical colleges and universities. In addition, most government offices will have automatic disconnection facilities between 8-9 pm, except for essential departments like home, finance, and the CM secretariat.

The Secretariat has also implemented energy-efficient lighting, including LED lights and motion sensors, to reduce energy consumption. Waste segregation and recycling practices have been adopted to ensure environmental sustainability. Green landscaping around the building enhances the eco-friendly atmosphere, providing a natural and healthy environment for employees and visitors.

With the launch of the solar power project, the Assam Secretariat Complex has become the first civil secretariat in India to rely entirely on solar-generated electricity for daily operations. The solar plant, with a lifespan of 25 years, is projected to reduce 3,060 metric tonnes of carbon emissions annually and 76,500 metric tonnes over its lifetime.

The Assam Power Distribution Company Ltd. (APDCL) is exploring the possibility of reducing the power tariff by INR 1 from April 1, 2025, due to the cost and power savings from the green initiatives the facility undertook.