Uttarakhand, nestled in the Himalayas, is harnessing its abundant sunshine to fuel a rural green energy revolution through its unique ‘Solar Farming’ initiative. Launched by the state government, this programme seeks to address two pressing issues: promoting self-employment opportunities in rural areas and transitioning to a sustainable energy future.
The programme caters exclusively to Uttarakhand residents, empowering them to install solar power plants with capacities ranging from 100 kW to 500 kW. This not only generates clean energy but also creates income streams for rural families, contributing to economic development.
Beyond ‘Solar Farming,’ the state is reviving its Solar Rooftop Scheme, facilitating households to install panels and generate electricity for their own consumption. Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL) spearheads this initiative, installing around 600-700 kW of rooftop panels monthly and compensating customers based on a fixed tariff. This scheme has already seen enthusiastic participation with over 2,300 installations totalling 10.5 MW as of November 2023.
However, challenges remain. Logistical hurdles in mountainous terrains, limited space for installations in rural areas, and a dearth of skilled personnel pose obstacles to widespread adoption. While rooftop solar thrives in cities with larger rooftops, its scalability in rural areas with limited space needs innovative solutions. Additionally, the lack of trained professionals for designing, installing, and maintaining solar systems necessitates investments in skill development programs to ensure the program’s long-term success.
Despite these challenges, Uttarakhand’s ‘Solar Farming’ initiative marks a significant step towards a greener and more prosperous future for the state. By empowering rural communities through clean energy generation and income creation, the program holds the potential to transform the economic and environmental landscape of the Himalayan region.
