Satish Sharma Inaugurates 143 KW Rooftop Solar Plant in Jammu | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Jammu Kashmir took a major step towards renewable energy adoption on Tuesday as Minister Satish Sharma inaugurated a 143 KW grid-connected rooftop solar power plant at the JK Cable Car Corporation in Bahu, Jammu.

The project, costing Rs 74.55 lakh, is expected to generate 1.83 lakh units annually, saving around Rs 15 lakh in electricity expenses while reducing 1.33 lakh kilograms of CO₂ emissions each year.

The inauguration, organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JAKEDA) under the Science and Technology Department, was attended by MLA Vikram Randhawa, JAKEDA officials, engineers, and local stakeholders. Satish Sharma emphasised the government’s commitment to energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and the transition from conventional fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.

The 25-year-life expectancy plant will serve as a demonstration model for other government departments, highlighting the benefits of rooftop solar systems in cutting operational costs and enhancing energy self-reliance. The Minister directed JAKEDA and the Science and Technology Department to expand rooftop solar installations across more government buildings and strengthen public awareness programmes to promote clean energy solutions across urban and rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir.

This initiative aligns with India’s National Solar Mission and national renewable energy targets, supporting a cleaner and greener development trajectory for the union territory.