The Assam government has set an ambitious target to generate at least 3,500 megawatts of solar power over the next five years as part of its push to expand renewable energy and reduce reliance on conventional fuels, reports DD News.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the target highlights the state government’s focus on clean and sustainable energy sources. He said solar power will be key to meeting Assam’s growing electricity demand while supporting efforts to cut dependence on fossil fuels.
The Chief Minister said the move reflects Assam’s intention to align with national climate goals and gradually move towards an energy system with lower emissions.
According to Sarma, the government has adopted a multi-layered approach to boost solar power generation. This includes setting up large solar parks, promoting rooftop solar systems, and introducing small-scale solar solutions in rural and remote areas.
He said Assam’s natural conditions, along with stronger policy support, give the state an advantage in expanding solar power capacity. The government is encouraging investment by simplifying approvals, offering supportive policies and improving grid infrastructure.
Sarma said public sector companies, private developers and central government agencies are being brought together to speed up the addition of new solar capacity across different districts.
One of the major focus areas, he said, is installing rooftop solar systems on government offices, schools, colleges and hospitals. These steps are expected to lower electricity expenses for public facilities and show how clean energy can work at the local level.
The Chief Minister said the solar push will also generate jobs, especially for local youth, technicians and small businesses involved in installation, upkeep and related services. He added that the renewable energy drive supports Assam’s wider goals of economic development, environmental protection and energy security.
State officials said the government is also studying ways to combine solar power with other clean energy sources and strengthen power transmission and distribution networks to handle higher renewable energy use.
Sarma said the solar programme is about building a strong and future-ready energy system, not just adding capacity.
He said that with a clear goal of achieving 3,500 megawatts of solar power by 2030, Assam aims to become a leading renewable energy state in the Northeast, with long-term benefits for both current and future generations.
