Question : Solar Cities

(a) whether the Government has launched/proposes to launch any programme for development of solar cities in the country;

(b) if so, the details and the objectives thereof and the criteria laid down for identification of cities under the said programme;
(c) names of locations/areas identified in the country for setting up of solar cities, State/UT-wise including Kerala;

(d) the details of funds sanctioned and allocated and expenditure incurred for setting up of such solar cities so far along with the projected generation of power, solarcity-wise, States/UT-wise; and

(e) whether the Government proposes to extend this programme for inclusion of more cities in the said programme, if so, the details thereof, State/UT-wise?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR POWER, COAL & NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) (SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL)

(a): Yes madam. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is implementing a programme on “Development of Solar Cities”.

(b): The main objective of the Solar City is to reduce the fossil fuel based energy consumption by 10% through a combination of energy efficiency measures and enhancing supply from renewable energy sources. The criteria set by the Ministry for identification of cities include a city having population between 50,000 to 50 lakh (with relaxation given to special category States including North-East States), initiatives and regulatory measures already taken along with a high level of commitment in promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy.

(c): So far, 56 cities have been approved under this programme. State/UT-wise details of solar cities including in Kerala are given in Annexure.

(d): A total amount of Rs. 66.53 crore has been sanctioned for Master Plans, solar city cells, promotional activities and installation of renewable energy projects. Against this an amount of Rs.24.16 crore has been released so far.
(e): Yes madam. More proposals from States/UTs may be considered based on the demand and proposal received as per guidelines.
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