Nagaland targets 10,900 rooftop solar installations under ambitious solar mission

Kohima, June 16 (IANS) Nagaland Solar Mission (NSM) on Tuesday reviewed the progress of rooftop solar installations across the State and reaffirmed its target of installing 10,900 rooftop solar units under the ambitious renewable energy initiative, officials said.

A meeting of the Nagaland Solar Mission discussed the current status of rooftop solar installations and deliberated on measures to accelerate the implementation of solar energy projects across the State.

Addressing the meeting, Nagaland Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs K.G. Kenye called for greater public participation in advancing solar energy adoption, stating that the State’s transition towards renewable energy would require collective efforts from all stakeholders, including government agencies, vendors and consumers.

Kenye said solar energy remains a relatively new concept, particularly among the general public, but noted that Nagaland has immense potential to harness green and renewable energy resources. He observed that, while people have become accustomed to conventional energy sources over the years, shifting to solar power would be challenging.

The Minister stressed that widespread public awareness and active participation from government departments and vendors would be crucial to the successful promotion of solar energy in the State. Kenye lauded the empanelled vendors for taking responsibility for raising awareness and encouraging consumers to adopt solar energy.

He noted that while people in many parts of the country are already familiar with the benefits of solar power, many residents in Nagaland remain apprehensive and hesitant to make the transition. Despite these challenges, the Power Minister expressed satisfaction with the growing number of solar installations in the State and urged citizens to embrace solar energy as a reliable and sustainable alternative power source.

Highlighting the benefits of the initiative, he said rooftop solar installations would be made affordable and accessible. He expressed confidence that the public would respond positively to the programme and contribute towards achieving the objectives of Nagaland’s green energy revolution.

Kenye further stated that widespread adoption of solar energy could significantly reduce the persistent power shortages faced by the State and pave the way for a more reliable, sustainable and alternative source of energy for the people.

Chairing the meeting, Nagaland Principal Secretary for Power, K.D. Vizo urged all stakeholders to intensify their efforts and accelerate implementation to achieve the State’s target of 10,900 rooftop solar installations.

Describing the target as ambitious, Vizo emphasised the need to fully utilise the opportunities available under the Government of India’s solar energy programme. He noted that the initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, which aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.

According to Vizo, the programme would not only enhance renewable energy generation in the State but also help address energy-related challenges, reduce electricity expenses for consumers and contribute to the overall development of Nagaland.

Emphasising the importance of collective action, he said development is not the responsibility of the government alone and called upon the private sector, vendors and the public to actively participate in the mission. Vizo further said that the Solar Mission is a joint endeavour and stressed that all stakeholders must work together to achieve the State’s rooftop solar installation targets. He added that only through collective effort and cooperation can Nagaland realise its vision of a sustainable and energy-secure future.

–IANS

sc/dan