Hoshiarpur takes leap in promoting renewable energy

Hoshiarpur district has achieved a significant milestone in the promotion of renewable energy by becoming the first district in the state to integrate the Go-Solar Project with the Common Service Centre (CSC) network. This pioneering step has created a seamless link between solar rooftop installation services and CSCs, enabling the mission to reach both urban neighbourhoods and remote villages more efficiently.

Launching the integration of the Go-Solar mobile APK with CSCs-developed jointly by the district administration and Red Cross Society-and addressing a special workshop of village-level entrepreneurs (VLEs) at the District Administrative Complex, Deputy Commissioner Jain said that Hoshiarpur is currently the fastest-progressing district in Punjab in terms of solar rooftop adoption. This reflects the high level of awareness and enthusiasm among local residents toward renewable energy, she noted. With CSCs now providing doorstep access to the service, the process of installing solar systems will become more convenient, transparent and streamlined.

The Deputy Commissioner explained that the application will enable VLEs to collect consumer details, including vendor information, low-interest loan options and technical specifications related to the installation. Once an application is submitted, the respective vendor will directly contact the consumer to initiate the installation process. She added that through this system, citizens will have access to all essential services near their homes, while CSC operators will receive incentives for each application and installation, thereby boosting the campaign's momentum.

Highlighting the government's substantial subsidies on solar systems, she informed that consumers can avail benefits ranging from Rs 30,000 to Rs 60,000 for 1kW to 2kW systems, Rs 60,000 to Rs 78,000 for 2kW to 3kW systems, and up to Rs 78,000 for systems above 3kW capacity. She credited the project's success to the dedication of Assistant Commissioner and Go-Solar Project Nodal Officer Oishee Mandal. She also acknowledged the contributions of Red Cross Society secretary Mangesh Sood and joint secretary Aditya Rana for their efforts in expanding the project's outreach.

Expressing confidence in the initiative, DC Jain said the integration would not only establish Hoshiarpur as a model district in renewable energy but also contribute significantly to energy conservation and environmental protection in the coming years.