The Punjab government has approved a sum of ₹60.5 crores to install solar energy systems for rural piped water supply schemes in the state. The initiatives will help the state save approximately ₹8-9 crores annually.
Solar energy systems would be installed at 970 rural piped water supply schemes in 1508 villages. The total capacity of the solar power systems would be 8.698MW. Moreover, the Department of Water Supply and Sanitation (DWSS) has floated bids for the project. The last day for submission is January 12, 2023.
Mr. Bram Shanker Jimpa, Water Supply and Sanitation Minister, has said that the initiative aims to improve the financial sustainability of water supply schemes. Further, by reducing the monthly electrical expenses, the move will ensure the successful operation and management of the schemes by the gram panchayat of the villages.
Punjab has an installed solar capacity of 1127MW, and the state government is taking significant steps to boost this figure. In November, the government announced plans to develop 300MW solar power projects over its water bodies. The state is also planning to solarize all government buildings in the coming years.
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Resource: ET EnergyWorld
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