Twelve companies have expressed interest in setting up solar power plants at four dams in the state. This is a good move because solar power plants will also reduce evaporation losses from reservoirs, save on land area and provide jobs to rural youth. Unfortunately, the electricity department is dragging its feet over the NOC due to which the tenders cannot be floated. It is pertinent to note that bids for similar projects have touched a low of Rs.2.14 per unit of electricity, making it amply clear that renewable power is the way forward for a cash-starved country like India which is blessed with 310 sunny days in a year. The ministry for new and renewable energy should fast-track such initiatives and incentivise private players who are keen to enter the solar power space.
