Tamil Nadu accelerates plans to build 37 model solar villages

Tamil Nadu: Work is progressing rapidly on a plan to develop 37 model solar villages to promote renewable energy. The Green Energy Corporation, a subsidiary of the State Electricity Board, has expedited the preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for this project. This project is being implemented as part of various initiatives of the Central Government to promote solar energy.

The Central Government launched the “PM Surya Gupta Bijli Yojana” in 2024 to encourage the use of solar energy in homes. This scheme aims to promote the installation of solar power systems at the domestic level and strengthen self-reliance in power generation. Under this scheme, a subsidy of ₹30,000 per kilowatt is being provided for installing solar power plants in homes, encouraging the adoption of solar energy.

In addition, under this scheme, arrangements have been made to develop model solar villages in each district. The electricity generated by installing solar power plants in these villages will be used by domestic consumers as well as panchayat offices and other public buildings. Its objective is to ensure the availability of clean and sustainable energy in rural areas.

The central government is providing financial assistance of up to ₹1 crore for the Model Solar Village Project. This assistance will be used to develop solar power infrastructure in villages, establish distribution systems, and install other necessary facilities.

The Green Energy Corporation is developing Model Solar Villages in all 37 districts of Tamil Nadu, excluding Chennai. Villages with a population of more than 5,000 have been selected for this purpose. Plans are underway to install solar power plants in the selected villages to ensure local power generation.

Regarding this project, a Green Energy Corporation official stated that the process of determining the solar power potential in the 37 selected villages across the state is underway. This includes determining the number of megawatts of solar power plants to be installed in each village. A detailed project report is also being prepared, including the development of power lines and other infrastructure required for power distribution.

This scheme is being considered an important step towards increasing energy self-reliance in rural areas and reducing dependence on traditional power sources.