Goa CM Pramod Sawant eyes 100% electrification, launches sol ..
PANAJI: Chief minister Pramod Sawant on Sunday inaugurated a solar power-based electrification programme for rural households in the state. With an eye on 100% electrification, this project will provide power through renewable energy to areas where grid connectivity isn’t feasible.
The project is pursuant to an agreement signed by the Goa energy development agency (GEDA) with Convergence energy services limited (CESL). The project Sawant announced would be CESL’s first off-grid engagement, and will install and maintain photovoltaic (PV) systems for five years under the government’s remote village electrification programme. It will be executed through gram panchayats.
“It is a proud moment for us to announce that we will achieve 100% electrification for all homes in Goa, and that too with clean energy. We have made policy decisions for Goa to transition to a green state in a fast and concerted way. I congratulate GEDA and CESL for their good work,” said Sawant at the inauguration.
“In Goa, we are committed to provide green and clean energy access to every single household,” said power minister Nilesh Cabral. “We are very happy that on Goa Statehood Day, we are flagging off this high-impact and crucial project and that GEDA and CESL are working together towards expanding solar access to off-grid and kachha houses in the state.”
Chief secretary Parimal Rai said that remote rural communities will greatly benefit from this programme. “Our national climate goals will get a fillip from state actions, and Goa, with its policies, has increased its ambitions. Our outreach to the remotest corner will strengthen climate resilience of communities and contribute to climate change mitigation,” he said.
Power secretary Kunal said that the programme would improve the economy of rural households, and will contribute to inclusive local growth. “Goa’s villages will benefit from solar lighting, cheaper electricity and this project is important for Goa’s energy transition, and will steer rural development and growth. In the coming days, it will also increase off-grid solar electricity demand in rural area, which will in turn improve services,” he said.
GEDA member secretary Sanjeev Joglekar said that the agency is very happy that CESL has begun work immediately. “The solar lighting programme will contribute to India’s climate action and in achieving the country’s renewable energy targets,” he said.
