By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 5: A high-level delegation led by Power Minister AT Mondal has sought more central support for small hydro projects (SHPs) and renewable energy, specifically solar.
The delegation participated in a crucial meeting organised by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy to discuss the challenges and opportunities in promoting renewable energy in the northeastern states on Thursday. Union Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, Raj Kumar Singh chaired the meeting.
During the meeting, Mondal highlighted the progress made by the state in the renewable energy sector, the challenges faced by the state and the various initiatives undertaken by the Meghalaya government to promote renewable energy through a demand-driven and problem-solving approach.
He also sought the review of the financial support or subsidy of Rs 7.5 crore per MW given to the SHPs for a project of 1-25 MW, which has been put on hold. Singh agreed to look into it soon.
Mondal also underlined the feasibility of pump storage projects (PSPs) as “Meghalaya has a huge potential” and four PSPs with a total capacity of about 3,100 MW were identified with the technical support of NTPC. The only problem now is to fund such projects, he said.
He requested Singh to provide financial and technical assistance for easing the power crisis in the state.
Mondal emphasized the importance of ensuring energy security for the people of Meghalaya and the other north-eastern states. The CM’s Solar Mission, conceptualised by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and launched by the Meghalaya government, could revolutionise the access to energy in the state, he said.
“The government of Meghalaya has successfully implemented solar cold storage and solar food processing units, enabling efficient and sustainable energy utilisation in the state. These initiatives not only ensure energy security but also contribute to the preservation of agricultural produce and support local industries,” he said.
The director of MNREDA also raised concerns regarding the challenges faced in the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) programme.
He emphasised the need for support and collaboration with the central government to overcome these challenges and accelerate the adoption of solar energy in the state.
Power Commissioner and Secretary, Sanjay Goyal proposed the concept of floating solar panels as an innovative solution for Meghalaya. “This technology can harness solar energy efficiently by utilising water bodies in the state, thereby maximising energy generation and land-use,” he said.
Among the other suggestions given by the state were increased central financial assistance in the solar rooftop scheme, exploring the possibilities of joint venture in solar parks, and PSPs.