Solar ‘power’ for TG women

The Telangana government has announced plans to enhance women’s empowerment by setting up solar power plants through self-help groups, aiming to generate 1,000 MW of electricity.
Each MW of solar power requires four acres, and approximately 4,000 acres needs to be identified. Collectors were asked to identify temple and irrigation lands for this. Forests were highlighted as potential locations for setting up solar plants, provided there are no disruptions to local communities or ecosystems.
A video conference held with collectors discussed the progress of these initiatives, highlighting the government’s commitment to creating opportunities for women through policy-driven efforts.
Officials have been asked to identify land,
including government ones, for setting up solar power plants. Coordination with banks for financial support has also been prioritised. The energy department, through TG REDCO, has invited tenders for the projects, and these will soon be finalized. The Collectors were directed to speed up land acquisition and finalize eligible groups for the initiative.
The conference emphasized the benefits of solar energy, particularly for tribal areas, enabling farmers to adopt things like drip irrigation. This could lead to better yields and increased income for marginalized communities. Collectors were tasked with ensuring effective implementation, especially in tribal belts where land availability is higher.
The government also plans to integrate the PM-KUSUM scheme, enabling farmers to produce up to two MW of solar power. Farmers have been encouraged to apply for this scheme via the TG REDCO portal, ensuring access to affordable and sustainable electricity.
Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka addressing Collectors emphasized that women’s financial independence is key to their growth. The government has already finalised agreements between the energy and rural development departments to facilitate these solar power projects. Under the scheme, the government plans to provide interest-free loans and support self-help groups in using their resources effectively.
The Deputy Chief Minister also suggested using the rooftops of large buildings in urban areas like Hyderabad and Ranga Reddy districts for solar power generation. Protecting government land and promoting eco-friendly power generation were cited as added advantages of this initiative.