Jammu Kashmir: Solar Park Plan to Receive Rs 20 Lakh per MW Central Aid Under MNRE Scheme | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: The Union Territory of Jammu Kashmir is advancing plans to establish a large-scale Solar Park under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s (MNRE) Solar Park Scheme, with Central Financial Assistance (CFA) of up to Rs 20 lakh per megawatt (MW) or 30 percent of project cost.

Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, while chairing a high-level meeting to review the feasibility of the Solar Park, directed the divisional administrations to expedite the identification of suitable, encumbrance-free land parcels for the initiative. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including the Commissioner Secretary, Forests; Secretary, Science and Technology; Divisional Commissioners of Jammu and Kashmir; and Managing Director, JKPDC.

Taking a district-wise review, the Chief Secretary stressed the importance of selecting sizeable land areas not earmarked for other developmental projects, which can be swiftly transferred for the establishment of clean energy infrastructure. He appreciated the Science and Technology Department for progress achieved so far and emphasised that large-scale solar power is key to strengthening JK’s renewable energy portfolio and reducing dependence on conventional electricity sources.

Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Secretary of Science and Technology, briefed the meeting on the MNRE Solar Park Scheme and successful models implemented in Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh. He highlighted that, in addition to Rs 20 lakh per MW for infrastructure including grid connectivity, the scheme provides up to Rs 25 lakh per solar park for preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs).

Choudhary further said JK has an estimated solar energy potential of 20–22 GW, with 72 MW already harnessed through solar rooftop installations on government buildings. As an initial step, the department has proposed setting up a Solar Park of 200–250 MW, requiring approximately 5–7 acres per MW along with associated electrical and evacuation infrastructure.

The meeting also examined potential opportunities in the renewable energy sector, available implementation models, preliminary land parcels identified by Divisional Commissioners, key financial parameters, cost implications, and overall project viability.

The Chief Secretary instructed all concerned departments to work in close coordination and complete land feasibility assessments promptly, enabling JK to make a significant move towards clean and sustainable energy adoption.