Agartala: In a significant stride towards expanding access to electricity, the Centre has allocated Rs 81 crore to Tripura for the establishment of 274 solar micro grids in remote regions of the northeastern state, benefitting over 9,000 households. The project, initiated by the Ministry of Development of Northeast Region (DoNER), aims to illuminate hamlets in Dhalai, Unakoti, and South, West, and North Tripura districts, where conventional electricity is deemed non-profitable due to low population density.
The Tripura Renewable Energy Development Agency (TREDA) official stated, “The DoNER has sanctioned Rs 81 crore to Tripura for setting up 274 solar micro grids in remote areas, particularly tribal hamlets, where conventional electricity has not reached the people yet. A total of 9,250 families will benefit under the project.”
In regions where conventional electricity has yet to reach due to geographical isolation and sparse population density, the project will leverage solar power to illuminate households. Each solar micro grid will possess an installed capacity ranging from 2 KW to 25 KW, dependent on the population of a specific habitation. Though the tariff is pending finalization, beneficiaries are expected to contribute a nominal amount for power consumption. The commencement of work is anticipated within the current fiscal year.
TREDA estimates the northeastern state’s solar power potential at 2,000 MW, with only 19.50 MW currently generated. The recent unveiling of Tripura Energy Vision aims to generate 500 MW of solar power by 2030, demonstrating the state’s commitment to sustainable and renewable energy sources.