Major solar capacity achievement
Uttarakhand Achieves Landmark in Solar Power Expansion: Uttarakhand has crossed the significant milestone of 1 gigawatt (GW) installed solar capacity, reaching 1,027.87 megawatts (MW). This marks a major advancement in the state’s clean energy transition and strengthens India’s renewable energy goals. The achievement reflects the growing adoption of solar technology in both urban and remote mountainous regions.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami highlighted that the progress aligns with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and green growth under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Solar expansion is helping reduce dependence on fossil fuels while promoting sustainable development.
Static GK fact: 1 gigawatt equals 1,000 megawatts, and it is used to measure large-scale power generation capacity.
Diverse solar installations support growth
The solar milestone has been achieved through multiple project types, including ground-mounted plants, rooftop solar systems, canal-top installations, and solar pumps. Around 397 MW has come from ground-mounted projects, while 241 MW has been installed under rooftop programs such as the PM Surya Ghar Scheme.
Other contributions include 137 MW under the Chief Minister Solar Self-Employment Scheme, 110 MW through commercial net metering, and 51 MW from captive solar plants. Canal-top and canal-bank solar projects have added 37 MW, while government buildings contributed 26 MW, showing diversified solar adoption.
Static GK Tip: Canal-top solar panels reduce water evaporation and maximize land efficiency, making them suitable for land-scarce regions.
Employment and energy security benefits
Solar energy expansion has created significant employment opportunities for youth, entrepreneurs, and technicians. More than 100 MW of additional solar capacity is currently under installation, especially through self-employment schemes and rooftop projects.
Solar infrastructure also improves energy access in remote Himalayan regions, where traditional electricity supply is challenging. Increased solar generation helps reduce carbon emissions and strengthens energy independence.
Role of UREDA in solar promotion
The Uttarakhand Renewable Energy Development Agency (UREDA) has played a key role in promoting solar adoption. It has provided technical support, financial incentives, awareness programs, and simplified approvals. These initiatives have encouraged private investment and public participation.
UREDA’s efforts have accelerated solar deployment across domestic, commercial, and government sectors. Policy support and subsidies have further strengthened renewable energy growth in the state.
Static GK fact: UREDA was established to promote renewable energy development and implement clean energy projects in Uttarakhand.
Future targets and renewable vision
The state government aims to further expand solar capacity and promote renewable energy adoption. Increased investment and policy support will help Uttarakhand emerge as a leading solar energy state in India.
India has set a national target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, and Uttarakhand’s achievement contributes significantly to this goal. Continued solar expansion will support climate action and sustainable economic growth.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Uttarakhand Achieves Landmark in Solar Power Expansion:
| Topic | Detail |
| Solar milestone | Uttarakhand crossed 1,027.87 MW solar capacity |
| Measurement unit | 1 GW equals 1,000 MW |
| Major scheme | PM Surya Ghar Scheme supports rooftop solar |
| Key agency | UREDA promotes renewable energy in Uttarakhand |
| Major project types | Rooftop, ground-mounted, canal-top, captive solar |
| National renewable target | India aims for 500 GW non-fossil capacity by 2030 |
| Employment impact | Solar expansion creates self-employment opportunities |
| Environmental benefit | Solar energy reduces carbon emissions |
| Energy security | Solar improves power supply in remote regions |
| Policy vision | Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat and green growth |
