Don't buy cheap stuff from China, Abdullah tells solar sector

Addressing a workshop on Solar Water Heaters organised by his ministry, the Minister said India will have to "fight" with the oil lobbies to come up strongly in the renewable energy sector.

"I want to say that please do not buy cheap stuff from China for making a quick buck," the Union Minister said while urging the industry to provide good quality equipment and services in the sector.

The Minister's remarks come at a time when the indigenous solar industry is facing tough times due to onslaught by Chinese manufacturers.

On the need to increase use of new energy, Abdullah said Army was one of the largest users of diesel in states such as Jammu and Kashmir but now it is also planning in a big way to switch over to renewables for its requirements there.

The minister also urged the industry to provide post-installation services also as there have been several instances where such equipment has been lying unused for want of repairs and servicing.