Jammu and Kashmir to expand solar and hydropower capacity

Union Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal stated that the decision to provide 200 free units of electricity to eligible households in Jammu and Kashmir is the responsibility of the Union Territory government, rather than the central government. This initiative is specifically targeted at Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) families through the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana rooftop solarisation scheme. The program aims to cover approximately 2.23 lakh families, with solar systems expected to generate up to 200 units of electricity per month.

In addition to solar initiatives, Agarwal highlighted the expansion of hydropower projects in the region. Major ongoing projects on the Chenab river, including Ratle, Pakal Dul, Kiru, and Kwar, are progressing with support from the UT administration. The central government is also considering new hydropower developments, such as the Sawalkote project.

Jammu and Kashmir has reached a milestone of 100 MW under the rooftop solar program, with districts like Srinagar, Budgam, and Kupwara showing strong performance. Agarwal noted that the UT has reached a ‘take-off stage’ in solar adoption and mentioned that several private and public companies have expressed interest in developing solar infrastructure in the area.