Chandigarh: In a significant move towards decarbonising the power sector and reducing the state's reliance on conventional energy sources, the Punjab Government has installed rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on 4,474 government buildings. Additionally, the state has also set a target to add 20 MW of solar power by installing more rooftop solar PV panels on government buildings during the FY 2025-26.
Sharing this information today, Punjab New and Renewable Energy Sources Minister Mr. Aman Arora said that the rooftop solar PV power panels with a capacity of 34 MW have already been installed on 4,474 government buildings in the state as of December 2024. These rooftop solar panels are generating over 4.9 crore units of electricity annually.
He further informed that these grid-connected rooftop solar (PV) panels generate electricity at the consumer point, which helps reduce network losses in distribution. The electricity generated also aids in bridging the demand and supply gap, enabling PSPCL to meet its renewable purchase obligation targets as specified by the Electricity Regulatory Commissions. This grid-connected system produces power during the daytime and feeds excess electricity back into the grid.
Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government has been making consistent efforts to bolster the clean energy infrastructure, aiming to provide a cleaner environment for the people of the state. This ambitious initiative is expected to play a crucial role in decarbonising the power sector, as solar (PV) technology has become the most favored source of renewable energy due to its various advantages.
Solar PV systems are not only environmentally friendly but also help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions for combating climate change. By harnessing solar energy, the state government aims to decrease reliance on fossil fuels, thereby promoting sustainable energy practices, besides enhancing energy efficiency and leading to significant cost savings in electricity bills. It also supports local economies by creating job opportunities in the renewable energy sector, he added.