DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

Encouraging industrialists to invest in non-conventional and green energy sectors, Punjab New and Renewable Energy Sources Minister Aman Arora, highlighted the significant potential Punjab holds in the green energy sector. He stressed the essential shift towards clean and sustainable energy. Punjab has emerged as one of the leading states in the country, aiming to lead in the production of green energy.

Attending the Regional Energy Transition & Sustainability (RETS) Conclave as a Chief Guest here at Parade Ground, on Sunday, Mr. Aman Arora urged new startups to collaborate in this initiative, highlighting that the Punjab government, under Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, stands prepared to offer comprehensive support to foster their growth. The conclave was organised by PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

Highlighting the state's efforts in solar energy, he mentioned that a 4MW Solar PV plant has already been commissioned in Tarkhanawala village, Bathinda, to address the agricultural power requirements. This project is expected to produce approximately 6.65 million units of power per year. PEDA is all set to establish three additional Solar Power Plants, each with a capacity of 4MW, totalling 12MW, in the Bathinda district.

In addition, the State is mulling to set up 66 solar power plants, each capable of generating 4 MW (totaling 264 MW capacity). Upon completion, this project is anticipated to produce around 390 Million Units (MU) of electricity per year. PEDA has also invited applications from farmers for installation of 20,000 agricultural pumps statewide, he added. To address the issue of stubble burning, Mr. Aman Arora mentioned that PEDA has been making strenuous efforts to utilise paddy straw in Compressed Biogas (CBG) Projects, Biomass Power Projects and Bio-ethanol Projects. Additionally, a draft of Green Hydrogen Policy has also been formulated to promote green energy in the state.

Chief Executive PEDA Mr. Sandeep Hans said that PEDA is extending full support to startups introducing innovative concepts in the green energy sector. The government aims not only to achieve self-sufficiency in solar energy in Punjab but also to generate employment opportunities for the youth.
(editor@dailyworld.in)