J-K to solarize government buildings, create over 10k jobs

SRINAGAR — The Administrative Council (AC) of Jammu & Kashmir, chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday, has approved notable initiatives to enhance the UT’s infrastructure and educational framework.

In a crucial decision, the AC greenlit the solarization of all government buildings in Jammu & Kashmir, targeting an aggregate capacity of 270 MW. The project, estimated to cost Rs 400 crore, will be executed in both Capex and RESCO modes.

Managed by the Jammu & Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JKEDA), the initiative aims to leverage the vast rooftop spaces of government establishments for solar energy generation.

The plan includes installing Grid-Tied Rooftop solar power systems with bi-directional smart meters and Virtual Net Metering (VNM) benefits, enabling efficient energy adjustment across various government buildings.

The project, expected to be completed by December 2025, is projected to create over 10,800 jobs across highly skilled, skilled, and unskilled sectors. Additionally, the installation of 270 MW solar power plants is anticipated to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 8.3 million tons over 25 years.

The AC meeting, attended by Advisor to LG Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, and Principal Secretary to LG Mandeep K Bhandari, stressed accelerating the deployment of rooftop solar projects across all government-owned buildings in the UT.

In another key decision, the AC approved the continued affiliation of government polytechnics and Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in Leh and Kargil with the J&K Board of Technical Education.

This decision, requested by the Union Territory of Ladakh, aims to benefit the students of the region by ensuring a smooth admission process and timely conduct of examinations. The affiliation will extend until the end of the academic session 2025-26 or until Ladakh establishes its own Board of Technical Education.