Rajasthan Unveils Ambitious 10-Year Energy Plan Focusing On Solar Power

Jaipur, Jul 11 (KNN) Rajasthan government has introduced a comprehensive 10-year energy plan in its revised fiscal Budget 2024-25, aimed at addressing the growing electricity demand and ensuring sustainable energy production.

The plan places a strong emphasis on developing renewable energy sources, with a particular focus on solar power.

Central to this initiative is the establishment of three major solar parks in Pugal, Chhatargarh-Bikaner, and Bodana-Jaisalmer.

These parks are projected to generate over 50,000MW of solar energy, demonstrating the government's commitment to green energy solutions.

Energy Minister Hiralal Nagar stated, "This plan presents a comprehensive roadmap for extensive reforms in the energy sector."

The government has allocated Rs 2.25 lakh crore to meet energy demands by 2031-32, underscoring the sector's transformation as a top priority.

In addition to the large-scale solar parks, the government plans to establish an Adarsh Solar Village in each district, featuring solar power plants with capacities up to 2 MW.

These villages will receive a 40 per cent subsidy to promote solar energy adoption. Government offices will also gradually transition to solar energy as part of this green initiative.

An official source revealed, "By 2031, the state aims to produce 20,500MW from conventional energy sources and 35,600MW from renewable energy sources, creating a balanced approach to achieve energy security and sustainability."

To enhance grid reliability and safety, Rs 150 crore has been allocated for underground power lines in urban areas. The government also plans to provide electricity connections to 2.08 lakh households currently without power.

Efficiency measures include the installation of 25 lakh smart meters this year to reduce electricity leakage.

The development of new Grid Sub-Station (GSS) infrastructure is also planned, including six 765 KV GSS, seven 400 KV GSS, fifteen 220 KV GSS, and forty 132 KV GSS.

Furthermore, the government aims to clear the backlog of pending electricity connections by providing 1.45 lakh connections by March 31, 2024.

This comprehensive energy plan represents a significant step towards sustainable and reliable power production in the state, balancing conventional and renewable energy sources to meet future demand.

(KNN Bureau)