Rajasthan Government Expands Efforts to Boost Solar Energy Capacity.

The Rajasthan government has initiated the development of solar power projects with a total capacity of 17 gigawatts (GW) to strengthen the state's electricity infrastructure and production capabilities. The move aligns with the state’s vision to not only meet its own power needs but also supply electricity to other regions of the country, as stated by Rajasthan's Minister of State for Energy, Heeralal Nagar.

Rajasthan, known for its solar energy potential, boasts the highest solar radiation capacity in India, at 5.72 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per square meter per day. The state enjoys an average of 352 sunny days per year, making it an ideal location for renewable energy projects. Currently, Rajasthan’s solar power potential stands at around 142 GW, accounting for nearly 19% of the country's total potential.

The state government aims to increase solar energy’s share in its power consumption from 12-14% to over 40% by 2030, bridging the existing power gap. Prem Biyani, Executive President of the All Rajya Trade and Industries Association, welcomed the government's push for solar energy, emphasizing the cost-efficiency of locally produced solar power compared to electricity imported from other states.

At the Rising Rajasthan Investment Summit held in December, the state signed 530 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) worth over ₹2.6 trillion, with plans to increase this figure to ₹5 trillion over the next five years. Additionally, 74% of Rajasthan’s farmers currently receive daytime electricity, and the government is working to extend this benefit to the remaining farmers by the end of the rabi season, enhancing the state’s agricultural and energy landscape.\

BS