Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma emphasized the importance of an integrated renewable energy approach for the state. He highlighted the need to enhance the implementation of the PM Surya Ghar–Muft Bijli Yojana while seeking innovative clean energy solutions suitable for Meghalaya’s geographical conditions.
Sangma, during a review meeting at the State Guest House in Shillong, urged officials to develop a comprehensive plan to boost renewable energy adoption. He also emphasized the significance of increasing consumer involvement and conducting awareness campaigns throughout the state.
The Chief Minister assessed the progress of the PM Surya Ghar scheme, which aims to offer up to 300 units of free electricity monthly to households through rooftop solar setups supported by central financial aid of up to Rs 78,000.
Sangma highlighted the challenges hindering consumer participation in Meghalaya, such as high installation costs due to transportation expenses, challenging terrain, and the limited scale of rooftop solar installations in the state. He stressed the need to make solar adoption more appealing by reducing payback periods and enhancing consumer benefits.
Advocating for energy storage solutions, Sangma proposed exploring battery-backed solar options to enhance reliability and enable households to maximize the benefits of rooftop solar systems. He also instructed departments to identify opportunities for expanding rooftop solar installations in government facilities by utilizing available central support.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of public awareness and recommended involving educational institutions and youth groups in campaigns promoting renewable energy and energy conservation. Sangma also urged officials to explore decentralized renewable energy options like biomass, biogas, micro-hydel projects, and solar-powered community infrastructure, especially for rural areas.
The meeting concluded with directives to formulate a coordinated strategy to reduce electricity costs, encourage clean energy adoption, and bolster Meghalaya’s sustainable energy future.
