By Saloni Singh

The global shift towards renewable energy is being propelled by the imperative to mitigate climate change, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and enhance energy security. Solar power, due to its widespread scalability and economic viability, is a key component of this shift. In India, solar energy plays a central role in achieving the country’s renewable energy targets, particularly with the goal of 500 GW from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030. Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has enormous potential in solar energy, which might alter the state’s energy roadmap. As informed by the Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy and Power, India’s total solar energy potential has been estimated to be 748-gigawatt peak (GWp), in which Jammu and Kashmir holds the second position in the solar potential of 111050-megawatt peak (MWp).

Towards the Sun!

The magnificent topography of J&K has been characterised by the high altitudes, snow-capped mountains with sparse cloud cover and prolonged sunshine, making it exceptionally fit for the generation of solar energy. J&K receives around 323 hours of sunshine per month on an average, with sunshine reaching up to 382 hours in May and June. No wonder, this beautiful region with immense solar potential also has impressive solar radiation levels with average solar radiation in the region approximately 5.5Wh/m2/day, which designate it as one of the best solar regions in the India with above national average. The region has verdant valleys, vast stretches of open land, especially in its plains and lower altitude areas. The combination of this with the region’s high solar irradiance establishes a quintessential setting for the development of large-scale solar farms, solar parks, and decentralised solar solutions that can meet the energy requirement both at a local and national level.

The Current Status of Solar Energy in the J&K

J&K has already started taking baby steps by providing substantial financial incentives and subsidies to enhance the affordability of solar power.

© Kashmir Observer