Rooftop solar power plan shows promise
Patna: The grid connected rooftop project, which entails production of solar energy on rooftops of individual households and institutions, looks set for a promising start in the state.
Around 12MW of solar energy would be produced from rooftops of individual households and at least 40MW would be produced from government offices and institutional buildings, according to the applications received so far.
“This demand is bound to grow which would result in production of more solar power through rooftop generation units,” said an official of the Bihar Renewable Energy Development Agency (BREDA).
Individuals and organisations who want to be part of the scheme can apply for it in person at the BREDA office, or through the agency’s website.
A sum of Rs 75,000 would be required for setting up the micro solar power plants at rooftops; half of the cost will come as subsidy from the Centre and the state. Those availing the benefit of the scheme will have to pay half the cost in 60 instalments of Rs 625 each. In lieu of this payment, The individual/organisation would get 1KW of power per month, which is equal to 120 units of electricity. In case of institutions and social organisations, the government would provide 25 per cent of the cost as subsidy whereas commercial or industrial units would not be entitled for any subsidy.
The distribution companies will buy back the power at the current tariff in case the user is not using it for the time being.
Two-way electricity meters, which allow flow of electricity both ways, i.e. from distribution company to consumer and vice-versa, will be set up. The meter will also ensure that power from the distribution company is supplied to the consumer only if the daily quota of power generated by the rooftop plant is consumed.
In case of non-use of power generated at rooftops, the same will be supplied to the distribution company by the same meter. According to the norms set for implementing this scheme, the distribution companies will allow giving this facility to 30 per cent of the transformer capacity through which power is supplied to consumers in a given area.
The BREDA official said the agency for setting up this facility has already been selected and the actual installation of the facility will start within a month.
“We are hoping that many more individuals and organisations come forward for availing this facility which is not only beneficial for consumers but will also help in generation of more renewable energy in the state,” he added.
Source: telegraphindia
