Assam gets India's first eco-friendly civil secretariat
- In Reports
- 11:50 AM, Jun 17, 2024
- Myind Staff
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma advanced the State's green energy initiatives by inaugurating the Janata Bhawan Solar Project on Sunday. This 2.5 MW power generation capacity grid-connected rooftop and ground-mounted solar PV system was launched during a ceremony at the Assam Secretariat Complex.
The Janata Bhawan Solar Project is expected to generate an average of 3 lakh units of electricity monthly. The investment of Rs 12.56 crore is projected to be recovered within four years, with estimated monthly savings of approximately Rs 30 lakhs. With the launch of this project, the Assam Secretariat Complex has become the first civil secretariat in the country to rely entirely on solar-generated electricity for its daily consumption.
The solar plant, with a lifespan of 25 years, will reduce carbon emissions by 3,060 metric tonnes annually. Over its lifetime, it will cut down a total of 76,500 metric tonnes of carbon emissions.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described the project's launch as a historic moment in the State's transition to green energy. He noted that the State government had been paying approximately Rs 30 lakhs monthly to the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited for traditional electricity consumption. By switching to green energy, the government aims to reallocate these resources towards the welfare of socially and economically disadvantaged communities.
The Chief Minister emphasised the need for all government offices to gradually adopt solar power. In the initial phase, he urged medical colleges and universities to transition to solar energy.
The Chief Minister highlighted the State government's initiatives to promote green energy, mentioning the recent foundation stone laying for the 25-MW Solar Power Project at Namrup. He also discussed upcoming solar projects in Bharchalla, Sonitpur district, Khudigaon, Dhubri district, and the 1,000-MW project in Karbi Anglong. He stated that the completion of these projects would significantly reduce the State’s reliance on externally procured energy.
Sarma urged the public to apply for the “PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Scheme” to reduce household electricity expenses. He noted that installing solar panels can lead to an 85% decrease in household electricity costs.
The Chief Minister announced that starting from July 1, the practice of providing free electricity to the official residences of the Chief Minister, other ministers, senior officials, and government officials will be discontinued. They will be required to pay for their electricity consumption henceforth.
Image source: ANI
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