Power minister of Tripura, Ratan Lal Nath, announced an ambitious plan to significantly increase the generation of clean solar energy in the state. Speaking at the launch of ‘Tripura Energy Vision 2030’ at Agartala Bidyut Bhavan, Nath revealed that Tripura has set a target to generate at least 135 Mega Watts (MW) of power from clean solar energy by the year 2025.
The government has already taken steps towards achieving this target by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) for the establishment of a 130-MW floating solar power plant on Dumbur Lake. The project is currently in progress, and once completed, it will contribute significantly to the state’s solar energy capacity.
The state government has made commendable progress in solar power generation over the past five years, increasing it to 12 MW from a mere 6 MW in March 2018. With an eye on the future, Nath revealed a vision to generate at least 500 MW of power from solar energy by the year 2030. The government is keen on harnessing clean energy sources and is considering the establishment of more solar plants across Tripura.
Highlighting the benefits of clean energy, Nath mentioned that there is a plan to generate solar power in all of the existing 1158 gram panchayats and village councils in Tripura. This initiative is expected to not only reduce power tariffs but also make gas-based thermal power available to industries in the state.
The government has also undertaken various infrastructure development projects to strengthen the power sector. Notably, three new 132 KV sub-stations were established at a cost of Rs. 80 crore, along with 54 km of 132 KV transmission lines costing Rs. 39 crore. Additionally, 22 new 33 KV sub-stations were set up with an investment of Rs. 132 crore, among other achievements.
In a bid to ensure uninterrupted power supply, especially during the monsoon season, the government is actively exploring the feasibility of laying underground power cables in the capital city of Agartala.
The ‘Tripura Energy Vision 2030’ is based on a survey conducted by the Research Triangle Institute (RTI), which reported that Tripura will require at least 692 MW of power by 2030. This comprehensive vision aims to propel the state towards a greener and more sustainable energy future.
The implementation of these ambitious plans will not only bolster Tripura’s energy security but also contribute to the larger goal of reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.
