The state has achieved great progress towards sustainability with the introduction of the 10th Amendment to Punjab's intra-state open access laws, 2011 by the punjab State electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC). This solar energy policy, which was published on june 5, 2023, intends to solve long-standing electrical issues and further Punjab's compliance with international and national sustainability goals.
The state's electricity prices have decreased, which is one of the most obvious outcomes of its solar energy initiatives. Its energy economy was heavily dependent on fossil fuels before solar reforms were put into place, necessitating large energy imports. This load has been significantly lessened by solar energy. From 1,493 million units (MUs) in 2021–2022 to 2,729 MUs in 2022–2023 and 3,629 MUs in 2024–2025, the total amount of solar energy produced grew. It is anticipated that the cost of solar energy will decrease from Rs 6.59 per unit in 2021–2022 to Rs 4.24 per unit by 2024–2025. This demonstrates the financial advantages of switching to renewable energy sources.
Additionally, the state's solar capacity has increased at a startling rate. Rooftop solar installation capacity rose from 157 MW to 419 MW between march 2022 and october 2024, while the total installed capacity—including outside-state contributions—rose from 1,556 MW to 2,574 MW. punjab has been able to significantly reduce its electricity expenses and dependence on conventional energy sources thanks to this expansion. Particularly, the industrial and agricultural sectors have profited. In addition to saving money on electricity, farmers that use solar energy for irrigation can also make extra money by selling excess power back to the grid.
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions has also been significantly impacted by Punjab's explosion in renewable energy. Carbon-dioxide emissions have dropped as a result of the switch to solar energy from fossil fuels; preliminary estimates indicate that the yearly greenhouse gas output has decreased by more than one million tonnes. Particularly in urban and industrial regions, where air pollution has long been a serious health concern, this has improved the quality of the air. Lower incidence of respiratory infections have been associated with cleaner energy sources, which promotes public health and lowers healthcare expenses.
Solar power adoption has been facilitated by the state government's proactive attitude to renewable energy. Commercial and industrial users with certified demands of 100 kVA or more can now get green energy through simplified procedures. A unified wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital platform ensures timely and transparent application processing, with approvals granted automatically after 15 days if nothing is done. This customer-focused approach promotes a broader use of green energy by doing away with administrative hold-ups.
The usage of renewable energy has been further supported by the policy's financial incentives. For 12 years following a project's commissioning, cross-subsidy surcharges for green energy customers have been capped at 50% of their initial amounts. Additional fee waivers for offshore wind projects, waste-to-energy plants, and green hydrogen production have reduced obstacles to entry for breakthrough renewable energy technologies. These initiatives not only reduce costs but also make punjab a desirable place to invest in the renewable energy sector.
To encourage sustainability in all sectors of the economy, the state has integrated solar energy into agriculture. It enables farmers to look into new revenue streams and reduce operating costs. The scheme even encourages solar-powered irrigation and facilitates the sale of excess electricity to the grid. By empowering rural residents, the government hopes to strengthen Punjab's agricultural base and encourage environmental responsibility. Nevertheless, difficulties still exist in spite of these successes.
The initial expenses of converting to renewable energy sources are a significant barrier for rural households and small businesses. In light of this, the government has launched awareness campaigns and technical support programs to inform interested parties about the long-term benefits of green energy. Another issue is infrastructure readiness. Making the switch to transmission and distribution networks is necessary to incorporate renewable energy into Punjab's current electrical infrastructure.
To address the growing demand for renewable energy, the administration is working with central agencies and commercial partners to upgrade the state's energy infrastructure. The government's efforts to increase the generation of ammonia and green hydrogen demonstrate its progressive stance. They show that it is committed to being a leader in the field of renewable energy.
punjab is demonstrating its commitment to sustainable development by coordinating its policies with international climate agreements such as the paris Accord and the Central government's Green Energy Open Access Rules, 2022. Additionally, the Amendment promotes Sustainable Development Goal 7 of the UN, which calls for universal access to modern, affordable, dependable, and sustainable energy. The inclusiveness of these measures reflects the government's all-encompassing approach to governance.
The administration has created a policy framework that benefits all parties involved, from farmers and industrialists to regular citizens, by lowering consumer entry barriers and giving renewable energy adoption top priority. The focus on innovation, openness, and diversity sets an example. The AAP government, led by Bhagwant Mann, has demonstrated its commitment to striking a balance between environmental care and economic growth through the 10th Amendment. punjab is laying the groundwork for a sustainable future by embracing renewable energy.
The welfare of the populace and the environment is given top priority by these reforms, which will guarantee that punjab remains a shining example of development and sustainability for coming generations.
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