Punjab to set up solar power plants

The Punjab government, in collaboration with US-based SunPower Corporation and Enterprise Business Solutions (EBS), has decided to set up solar power plants in the state. The plants are expected to generate 1,000 Mw over the next two years.

Chief Minister Prakash Singh Badal directed the Secretary, Science & Technology, Viswajeet Khanna, to prepare a comprehensive plan to establish the network of solar power plants through Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA).

Badal also asked the representatives of SunPower and EBS to set up solar panels at rooftops of government buildings as part of a demo project. This, the chief minister said, would be replicated in other government buildings like district administrative complexes, warehousing and Markfed godowns.

Gurmeet Naroola, who is in charge of SunPower business development in India, said EBS-SunPower was a joint venture to promote latest solar technology. The company plans to invest Rs 500 crore to set up manufacturing units in the state.

Naroola said once the project is implemented it will expand employment opportunities in the state. The company would also help set up an entrepreneur centre in association with PEDA to impart training and certification in the field of solar technology.

“EBS-SunPower has already started commissioning the first grid for a 5-Mw solar power plant at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar in Punjab which is expected to be operational in July,” said Naroola.

According to him, the initiative to promote solar power in Punjab would not only address environment issues but also bring jobs and investment.