Government Buildings in Gurugram to Get Rooftop Solar Power Plants

The Haryana Renewable Energy Development Agency (HREDA) is set to install rooftop solar power plants in all government buildings in Gurugram under the PM Surya Ghar.. The initiative aims to boost solar energy adoption and reduce dependency on conventional electricity sources.

As per reports, Deputy Commissioner of Gurugram, Ajay Kumar urged all departmental officers to register their respective buildings on the PM Surya Ghar portal to facilitate the installation of solar power plants, emphasising the importance of the scheme during a recent meeting.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme earlier this year in February, aiming to make solar energy more accessible to the general public. "The primary objective is to reduce dependence on the Electricity Department by promoting solar energy. It aims to provide affordable electricity, with the added benefit of subsidies and 300 units of free electricity to common citizens," Kumar stated.

The central government has earmarked a budget of INR 75,000 crore for the initiative, targeting the installation of solar power plants in one crore households across the country this year.

According to the report, 1,070 government buildings in Haryana have been identified for the installation of rooftop solar power plants, with a combined capacity of approximately 50 MW. These installations are expected to significantly contribute to the state's renewable energy goals.

Additionally, the government plans to designate one village in each district as a 'solar village,' further promoting solar energy adoption at the community level.

To encourage the use of solar energy among the general public, the government is offering financial assistance. Common citizens installing a two-kilowatt solar plant will receive a grant of INR 30,000, while those opting for a plant with a capacity of three kilowatts or more will receive INR 78,000. Antyodaya families are eligible for an additional grant of INR 50,000, making the scheme more inclusive.

Hitesh Kumar, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Gurugram, instructed all departmental officers to complete the registration of their office buildings on the PM Surya Ghar portal by next week. The timely registration is crucial for ensuring the swift implementation of the solar power installations.

The PM Surya Ghar Yojana is seen as a significant step toward achieving India’s renewable energy targets and making clean energy accessible to all.