Bhubaneswar, Oct 24: Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Friday reviewed the activities of the State Energy Department at Raj Bhavan, commending its steady growth in solar and renewable energy initiatives. He described the department’s efforts as “commendable” and urged officials to maintain their momentum toward sustainable development.

Focus on Solar Infrastructure

During the meeting, the Governor emphasized the importance of establishing distributed solar energy systems near substations to strengthen Odisha’s renewable energy infrastructure. He noted that land availability would not be a major hurdle and encouraged the department to design a comprehensive scheme to promote entrepreneurship and fulfill Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPO).

Green Hydrogen & Rooftop Solar Push

Dr. Kambhampati highlighted emerging opportunities in green hydrogen and suggested collaboration with NTPC for its production. He also called for awareness programs among students from IITs and IIMs to foster innovation in the sector.

Referring to the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, the Governor advocated for its large-scale implementation. He reviewed the rollout of the one-kilowatt rooftop solar system under the Utility-Led Aggregation (ULA) model managed by Tata Power. He recommended that Tata Power consider covering the Rs 5,000 consumer contribution for SC, ST, and marginalized households through CSR funds.

Support for Farmers & Broader Energy Goals

The Governor praised the PM-KUSUM scheme as a beneficial initiative for farmers, especially in the context of palm oil production. He encouraged the use of solar-powered pumps through the Horticulture Department.

Dr. Kambhampati also assessed the status of hydel projects, pump storage, small hydroelectric units, wind energy prospects, and Waste-to-Energy initiatives. He expressed satisfaction with village electrification progress and reviewed long-term energy goals under Vision 2036 and 2047.

The meeting was attended by Energy Department Principal Secretary Vishal Kumar Dev, OPTCL CMD Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma, and senior officials from OPGC, OHPC, GRIDCO, OREDA, and DISCOMs. Commissioner-cum-Secretary to the Governor Roopa Roshan Sahoo delivered the welcome address.