Guwahati, August 17, 2024 — In a decisive move towards a sustainable future, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma today announced a robust plan to enhance the state’s green energy capabilities. The initiative underscores Assam’s commitment to transitioning to clean energy sources for electricity generation and public transportation.
As part of the ongoing PM Surya Ghar Initiative, Assam has already achieved the installation of 1.8 megawatts (MW) of rooftop solar power capacity. This significant milestone marks a key step in the state’s broader strategy to promote solar energy adoption. To further streamline this transition, the government has rolled out a series of policy reforms aimed at encouraging residential participation and improving infrastructure.
Among the key policy changes are:
- Net-Metering for Residential Consumers: Homeowners generating solar power with capacities up to 10 kilowatts (kW) will now be able to offset their grid consumption by exporting excess energy to the grid.
- Simplified Approvals: The requirement for technical feasibility approval has been waived for installations up to 10 kW, expediting the adoption process.
- Enhanced Load Capacities: The Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) will automatically increase the sanctioned load up to 10 kW once rooftop solar systems are operational.
- Speedy Commissioning: Rooftop solar plants will be up and running within three days of installation, with smart meters provided at no extra cost to the consumers.
- Subsidy Assurance: Both state and central subsidies will be promptly disbursed to beneficiaries, ensuring financial incentives are available without delay.
- Training Programs: A five-day training initiative at the MSME-Tool Room and Training Centre in Amingaon has already equipped 107 solar technicians, bolstering the workforce needed for this green transition.
To support the growing demand for solar energy, Distribution Transformer (DTR) augmentation and new installations are actively underway. This ensures that Assam’s power infrastructure remains robust as the state continues its journey towards a greener and more sustainable future.
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