The Energy and Petrochemicals Department brought out the 'Gujarat Solar Power Policy-2015'. This is the second solar power policy announced by the Government. The first one was unveiled in 2009.
As per the document released by the Department, the policy of 2009 resulted in a "cumulative solar power generation capacity in excess of 1000 megawatts (MW) with investment of about Rs 9,000 crore".
Now, the Government wants to further scale up the production as Gujarat has potential to achieve more than 10,000 MW of solar generation capacity, said the new policy.
The policy is aimed at promoting several modes of generation, including roof-top solar power for house/building owners, distribution of solar-powered pumps to farmers and standalone photo-voltaic (PV) systems for domestic use.
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The state will facilitate de-centralised and off-grid solar applications to meet various energy requirements for domestic purpose, according to an official release.
For those living in remote areas, where regular grid-based connection is not feasible, the Government will initiate schemes for basic home lighting using PV system.
"Solar project developers shall be responsible for obtaining and for setting up and operating solar projects," stated the new document.