Gujarat to Install 48 MW Solar Rooftop System on Government Buildings in 2024

The Government of Gujarat has announced plans to install a 48 MW solar power rooftop system on government buildings across the state this year. With an investment of ₹177.4 crore, this initiative aims to significantly boost Gujarat’s renewable energy capacity and support India's broader transition towards cleaner energy sources.

Solar Initiative Aligned with National Energy Goals

This project is part of the state’s effort to align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to meet 50% of India’s electricity needs from renewable energy by 2030. One key achievement in this direction is the launch of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) by Prime Minister Modi and the President of France in 2015 at COP21, Paris. The ISA, a global initiative, promotes solar energy in 121 countries and reflects India’s commitment to fostering environmentally sustainable development.

To date, various initiatives like the Bharat Ujala Yojana, the National Solar Mission, and the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan have showcased India’s progress in renewable energy development. Now, Gujarat has taken the lead in advancing these goals.

Gujarat's Leadership in Solar Energy

With a solar energy potential exceeding 36 GW, Gujarat has been proactively working to utilize this resource. By March 2024, the state’s Climate Change Department will have completed the installation of 3,023 solar rooftop systems, delivering a combined capacity of 56.8 MW across multiple government departments.

The 48 MW rooftop solar project represents a crucial milestone in Gujarat’s clean energy journey. The government’s focus on installing solar infrastructure on its buildings will not only reduce dependence on conventional fuels but also help maintain environmental balance and contribute to economic growth.

Gujarat’s Renewable Energy Successes

Gujarat is already recognized as a leader in India’s renewable energy sector, particularly in solar and wind power generation. Initiatives such as the Charanka Solar Park have cemented the state’s role as a solar powerhouse. In 2023-24, Gujarat generated a total of 24,765.3 million units of renewable energy, with 9,637 MU from solar, 14,201 MU from wind, 885.325 MU from hydro, and smaller contributions from other sources like biomass and bagasse.

The state’s coastal wind farms have also played a pivotal role in diversifying its renewable energy mix, ensuring a sustainable and cleaner energy future for its citizens.