Meghalaya harnesses clean energy with solar power systems installation

Making significant steps to push for extension, and promotion of renewable sources of energy in the state, the Meghalaya New & Renewable Energy Development Agency (MNREDA) has installed solar power systems which are currently in progress for 63 BharatNet-1 sites across Meghalaya, an official said on Tuesday
This installation covers government schools, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) centres, and community halls.
These efforts aim to provide sustainable and reliable power supply for BharatNet infrastructure, thereby enhancing digital connectivity and clean energy adoption in rural areas, the official said.
Under BharatNet sites implemented by MNREDA, solarisation of 22 Government Lower Primary Schools is underway, the remaining locations, which include 8 secondary schools, 4 ICDS centres, and 29 community halls, the installation work has commenced at selected sites and is ongoing.
The solarisation of Lower Primary Schools under the CM Solar Mission has also begun in East Garo Hills district where a total of 125 schools (comprising 72 schools with 1.1 kVA systems and 53 schools with 2.2 kVA systems) are being solarised using off-grid inverter systems.
The CM Solar Mission aims to drive green and clean energy transformation, offering substantial subsidies and bank financing at minimal investment. The mission seeks to install capacity equal to the state’s current installed capacity within 2-3 years.
In addition, the solarisation of Lower Primary Schools under the CM Solar Mission will begin in East Jaintia Hills where a total of 123 schools (comprising 72 schools with 1.1 kVA systems and 51 schools with 2.2 kVA systems) will be solarised using off-grid inverter systems.
Further, work will be commencing for household electrification under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) in Mylliem Block under East Khasi Hills district where Solar hybrid inverter systems are being installed for 492 beneficiaries, including 352 systems of 0.85 kVA and 140 systems of 1.7 kVA.
Further, installation will be undertaken for 354 beneficiaries, with 253 systems of 0.85 kVA and 101 systems of 1.7 kVA in North Garo Hills and East Garo Hills districts respectively.
“These initiatives reflect the Government’s continued commitment to inclusive rural development through clean energy access, contributing to improved livelihoods and digital empowerment,” the official said.