Shimla, Dec 19,
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who holds the power portfolio, strongly refuted allegations concerning the specifications of solar power projects in the state. Speaking in the Assembly, CM Sukhu emphasized that all tender bids were finalized after rigorous scrutiny of norms. He asserted that the projects were designed to address region-specific challenges and maximize efficiency.
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The CM explained that solar power generation is influenced significantly by solar insolation, which varies by region. “The Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) in Himachal Pradesh is approximately 25% lower than that of Rajasthan and Gujarat,” he stated, citing data from NASA and Meteonorm. Himachal Pradesh’s GHI measures 1536 kW per square meter compared to 1943 kW per square meter in regions like Rajasthan and Gujarat. Consequently, electricity production per megawatt (MW) in Himachal is also 25% lower.
Sukhu elaborated that while Rajasthan and Gujarat generate 18-20 lakh units of electricity per MW, Himachal produces about 15 lakh units per MW due to lower GHI. To achieve a guaranteed energy output or a Capacity Utilization Factor (CUF) of 23-24%, the state has to install 25% extra solar modules, increasing the upfront DC capacity for solar projects in Himachal.
Addressing concerns about the cost-efficiency of the Pekhubela Solar Project, Sukhu compared it to similar projects undertaken by Gujarat State Electricity Corporation Ltd. (GSECL) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL). “When assessed on a per-unit electricity cost or DC installed capacity basis, our project is more cost-effective,” he asserted. Sukhu also highlighted that the Pekhubela Solar Project was completed in a record six months, compared to the usual timeframe of 18 months, showcasing the dedication of the teams involved.
The CM reiterated that Himachal’s solar initiatives are tailored to its unique geographical conditions. “Any solar project must be judged on its efficiency, cost per unit of electricity, and regional challenges,” he concluded, urging critics to consider these constraints and achievements.
Debate highlights: Green Cover and Resource Management
Participating in the discussion on the opposition adjournment motion , Town and Country Planning Minister Rajesh Dharmani raised concerns about environmental degradation due to the large-scale transport of firewood outside Himachal Pradesh. Dharmani claimed that approximately 500 trucks of firewood are exported daily to plyboard industries, leading to significant loss of green cover. He accused the previous BJP regime of mishandling recruitment in the Himachal Pradesh University and questioned the purchase of Rs 1000 crore worth of health equipment without ensuring the availability of specialized staff.
Dharmani also defended the leasing of loss-making Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) properties to private players. He cited precedents set by the disinvestment policies of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Responding to allegations, he said that during the BJP government’s tenure, corruption in cow shelters and irregularities in power sector software purchases were rampant.
Opposition’s Counterarguments
BJP MLA Vikram Singh criticized the government’s handling of green energy projects, accusing it of favoritism in tender processes. He questioned the quality of installations at the Pekhubela project and alleged irregularities in HPTDC’s affidavit submissions, which claimed that 49 out of 56 hotels were running at a loss. Singh also raised concerns about the lack of action against corruption allegations within the current regime.
Sudhir Sharma, another BJP member, defended the Opposition’s right to raise concerns, while talking about the jungle fowl controversy. He accused the government of targeting media houses and failing to address critical issues such as drug trafficking and illegal mining. Sharma highlighted the alleged misuse of forest land for private purposes and called for stricter enforcement of rules against the “Chitta Mafia.”
