Guwahati, Jun 17 (KNN) In a significant step towards sustainable governance, the Assam Secretariat on Sunday inaugurated a 2.5 MW solar power project, becoming the first green state government headquarters in India.

The grid-connected rooftop solar power plant, installed at a cost of Rs 12.5 crore, is expected to generate substantial energy savings.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who inaugurated the project, stated that the initiative would result in monthly savings of approximately Rs 30 lakh in electricity bills.

The solar installation will power the entire secretariat complex, marking a milestone in Assam's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.

"This project represents a giant leap forward in our goal to achieve Net-Zero government operations," CM Sarma said during the official program.

He further announced plans to expand solar power adoption to other government facilities, including medical colleges and universities across the state.

In addition to the solar project, the state government has introduced measures to optimise power consumption in official complexes.

These include implementing automatic power disconnection at most government offices by 8-9 pm, with exceptions for essential departments such as home, finance, and the Chief Minister's secretariat.

The Chief Minister also revealed a policy change regarding electricity bills for government officials. Starting July, ministers, senior officials, and staff residing in official quarters will be responsible for paying their own electricity bills, ending a longstanding practice of government-funded utilities.

Following the implementation of these energy-saving initiatives, the Assam Power Distribution Company Ltd (APDCL) will explore the feasibility of reducing power tariffs by Re 1 from April 1, 2025, potentially providing relief to consumers across the state.

The Assam Secretariat's transition to solar power underscores the state's commitment to environmental stewardship and sets a precedent for sustainable infrastructure in government institutions nationwide.

(KNN Bureau)