Varanasi Emerges as a Solar Powerhouse in Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi has secured the second position in the state of Uttar Pradesh for its remarkable achievements in spreading solar energy under the ambitious PM Surya Ghar Yojana. The city's solar infrastructure is now producing an impressive approximately 5.35 lakh units of electricity daily, leading to substantial financial and environmental benefits.
Massive Financial Savings and Energy Production
Chief Development Officer Prakhar Kumar Singh highlighted that over 30,000 online grid rooftop solar plants have been installed in Varanasi to date. These installations are not only generating significant power but also resulting in daily savings of around Rs 32 lakh. Cumulatively, this translates to an annual saving of Rs 116.8 crore, showcasing the scheme's economic viability.
The total installed capacity of rooftop solar energy plants in Varanasi has now exceeded 107 megawatts, making a substantial contribution to meeting the city's energy demands and reducing reliance on conventional power sources.
Government Support and Subsidy Distribution
UPNEDA Senior Project Officer Shashi Gupta emphasized the critical role played by the double engine government in driving the success of this initiative. To incentivize adoption, substantial subsidies have been disbursed directly to beneficiaries' accounts, including Rs 234 crore from the central government and Rs 90 crore from the state government. This financial support has significantly boosted public enthusiasm for installing solar plants across the district.
Environmental Impact and Carbon Reduction
The environmental benefits of Varanasi's solar push are equally noteworthy. The rooftop solar plants are facilitating an annual reduction of approximately 1,33,750 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. This reduction is instrumental in:
- Making Varanasi a cleaner and greener city
- Playing a pivotal role in combating climate change at the local and global levels
Economic Growth and Employment Opportunities
The scheme's growing popularity has spurred economic development in the region. The number of solar vendors in Varanasi has skyrocketed from just 10 to 248, reflecting a booming market. This expansion has created:
- Over 11,000 direct employment opportunities in the district
- Lakhs of indirect employment opportunities, benefiting a wide segment of the population
Varanasi's journey under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana stands as a testament to how renewable energy initiatives can drive financial savings, environmental sustainability, and economic growth simultaneously.
