Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced that the Pekhubela solar power project, boasting a capacity of 32 MW, is set to become operational in the Una district within the next two months. The initiative, designed to mitigate carbon emissions, is expected to generate an impressive 66.10 million units of electricity annually. With a dual focus on meeting the state’s energy demands and significantly reducing carbon emissions, the project is also seen as a source of employment for local residents.
Foundation Stone Laid with a Deadline in Place
Sukhu laid the foundation stone for the project on December 2, establishing a deadline for its completion by the first week of February 2024. Encompassing 59 hectares, the project involves the installation of 82,656 solar modules and aligns with the state’s ambitious goal of becoming a green energy hub by March 31, 2026.
Key Project Details and Environmental Impact
The Chief Minister highlighted that the project, awarded for construction on May 19, 2023, will transmit power through a 132 KV double circuit line-in and line-out of the Rakkar-Tahliwal transmission line, covering 1.88 km. Anticipating an annual reduction of 2,532 tonnes of carbon emissions, Sukhu underscored the positive environmental impact. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of providing employment opportunities to locals through such projects.
Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited’s Role
Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL) has been entrusted with the task of installing a 500 MW solar power project within the next two years. Funding has been secured for a 200 MW project, with the tender process for an additional 40 MW nearing completion. Plans for 100 MW solar power projects are also in the preparatory phase.
State’s Current Power Projects and Future Plans
Sukhu shared details of the state’s current power projects, with HPPCL managing 3,275 MW of hydroelectric and solar power. Completed projects of 281 MW capacity and ongoing construction of five projects totaling 690 MW were highlighted. Additionally, approvals for detailed project reports for four 272 MW projects have been obtained, and investigations are underway for 10 projects with a combined capacity of 926 MW.
Green Energy Integration with Employment Generation
In a forward-looking approach, Sukhu revealed plans for the second phase of the Rs 680 crore Rajiv Gandhi Swarojgar start-up scheme. The state government is considering integrating green energy with employment generation, offering a 40% subsidy to young individuals in the state for establishing solar power projects ranging from 100 KW to one MW capacity. This initiative is anticipated to promote green energy usage, contribute to environmental preservation, and create self-employment opportunities.
Source: tribuneindia.com
