Srinagar, Jun 4 (NVI): Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Thursday reviewed the progress of large-scale solarisation initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir and directed departments concerned to expedite measures for overcoming bottlenecks in the implementation of renewable energy projects across the Union Territory.
Chairing a high-level meeting attended by senior officials from the Power Development, Finance, Forest, Science and Technology departments, besides representatives of power distribution companies, Dulloo stressed the need for sustained follow-up and coordinated action to achieve the government’s solarisation targets within stipulated timelines.
According to officials, the chief secretary said Jammu and Kashmir has immense potential in the renewable energy sector and called for a comprehensive review of land parcels identified on the PM Gati Shakti portal for their suitability for setting up mega solar parks under central government-supported schemes.
He directed the Science and Technology Department to adopt a mission-mode approach and set measurable targets for the next six months, one year and two years to ensure visible progress on the ground.
The meeting reviewed issues related to land acquisition and transfer, statutory clearances, execution of power purchase agreements (PPAs), grid stability, installation of virtual net metering systems in government buildings and the introduction of a unified billing system for departments.
Officials also discussed the need for fresh power connections where required and measures to rationalise rates for projects being implemented under the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) model to improve efficiency.
The long-term roadmap for developing mega-scale solar power infrastructure in the Union Territory was also reviewed, with discussions focusing on land transfer, feeder segregation and execution of PPAs for effective integration of future solar assets.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to clean and sustainable energy, Dulloo directed all departments to work in close coordination and expedite action on decisions taken during the meeting so that Jammu and Kashmir keeps pace with other leading renewable energy regions in the country, officials said.(NVI)
