Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu announced the installation of a two-megawatt (MW) solar power plant in Kaza, a remote region of the Lahaul-Spiti district. The project aims to strengthen and improve the area's power supply. 

The Chief Minister praised the dedicated efforts of the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Ltd. (HPSEBL) team in setting up the plant. He mentioned that the plant would be fully operational within a few months, with the addition of a one-megawatt-hour (MWh) battery storage system. 

Sukhu emphasised the state's commitment to leveraging solar energy as part of its goal to become a "green state." In line with this vision, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are being established across the state based on demand. 

The state government has also approved the installation of 18 MW of ground-mounted and rooftop solar plants on vacant land near HPSEBL offices. Additionally, plans are underway to install rooftop solar systems on 50,000 houses by 2026-27. So far, 4,444 applications have been received for this initiative. 

The Chief Minister also outlined efforts to make Himachal Pradesh self-reliant by optimising resource use, including rationalising electricity subsidies and staff. He revealed that power project agreements signed by the electricity board are under review, and loans taken at high-interest rates will be reassessed to lower the debt burden. 

These initiatives aim to support the self-sufficiency of Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited. Sukhu reaffirmed the government's commitment to safeguarding the interests of employees and ensuring their financial benefits are regularly provided. 

(ET)