Conrad inaugurates 50 KW solar plant at city school
SHILLONG, June 2: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday inaugurated a 50 KW solar photovoltaic (PV) plant at St. Mary’s School, stating that renewable energy is no longer a choice but a necessity in the face of climate change. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister noted that while technology exists to solve environmental challenges, its effective application remains the priority. He observed that many past solar installations failed to provide consistent power, a gap the Chief Minister’s Solar Mission aims to bridge by providing comprehensive systems, including inverters and battery backups. “Renewable energy is the need of the hour. We must ensure we expand these sources to protect our environment and livelihoods,” Sangma said. He informed that the first phase of the mission is being implemented in 700 schools, with another 1,300 schools to be covered in the next phase. Larger institutions are being equipped with 50 KW plants. The integrated battery storage can provide up to eight days of backup power. A typical project, costing approximately Rs 50 lakh, is expected to save schools nearly Rs 5 lakh in annual electricity costs by generating 6,000 units per month. The Chief Minister also outlined plans to connect these solar plants to the state power grid. This will allow schools to feed excess electricity back into the system during vacations, further reducing carbon emissions and costs. Additionally, Sangma announced that the state government will launch a technology competition within two months. The initiative will encourage students to develop innovative solutions for challenges in sectors such as electricity, waste management, water, and health. “We will support start-ups and promote your ideas. The government is ready to invest in promising innovations,” he told the students.
Lok Bhavan marks statehood days of Sikkim, Goa & Telangana in Shillong
SHILLONG, June 2: Lok Bhavan on Tuesday hosted a special programme to commemorate the foundation and statehood days of Sikkim, Goa and Telangana. Held at the Durbar Hall, the event brought together government officials, students, et al, to celebrate the cultural diversity of the three states. The programme featured traditional dances and video presentations highlighting the history and heritage of Sikkim, Goa and Telangana. Additional Chief Secretary to the Governor, HC Chaudhary, delivered the welcome address in the absence of Governor CH Vijayashankar. During the session, the gathering also heard messages from the Governors of the three celebrating states. The event concluded with the felicitation of the students and artists who participated in the cultural performances.
