PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Dehradun Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has said that the State has increased its solar energy capacity by ten times in the last two years. He said that the State has successfully installed 290 MW of residential rooftop solar plants under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana. The CM was addressing a programme at his residence in which he released a booklet on solar awareness by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW). He said that the entire world is currently facing climate change, energy crisis and environmental challenges and at such a time, solar energy is not just an option, but a necessity for the future. The CM claimed that under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, Uttarakhand has achieved remarkable success. He said that the State has achieved its initial target of 40,000 rooftop solar plants ahead of schedule and approximately 95 per cent of the target has been completed. Terming it as a historic achievement towards building a self-reliant Uttarakhand in the energy sector, the CM praised the coordinated efforts of UPCL, UREDA and other departments and institutions involved in this campaign. He said extensive public awareness campaigns, street plays and special training programmes for officials have created awareness about solar energy in the State. He also praised the cooperation and significant contribution of the CEEW in this endeavour. Dhami said that the State government’s objective is not only to install solar plants, but also to make every citizen an active participant in the clean energy revolution. He stated that widespread use of solar energy will reduce electricity expenses for ordinary citizens, strengthen environmental protection and provide future generations with a clean, safe and green future. He expressed confidence that Uttarakhand will establish itself as an inspirational and role model for the country in the field of renewable energy in near future. MLA Suresh Gadiya, principal secretary R Meenakshi Sundaram, secretary Vinay Shankar Pandey, CEEW chief executive officer Arunabh Ghosh, managing director PTCUL Meherban Singh Bisht, UPCL MD GS Budiyal and other officers attended the programme.
