'By 2030, state targets to increase renewable energy sources by 20%'

Kolkata: Bengal government has achieved significant development in the non-conventional renewable energy sector with rooftop solar panels being installed in 1,954 schools while 1,890 more schools are coming up with solar panels fitted on roof tops.

Nandini Chakravorty, Principal Secretary, non-conventional renewable energy sources said that the State government has set the target of increasing renewable energy sources by 20 per cent by 2030. "We are committed to achieve this target. Hence, we have installed rooftop solar panels in 1954 schools and work is in progress in another 1890 schools. These initiatives will not only help us reduce the carbon emission and achieve NET Zero sooner than the target but will also ensure huge progress toward sustainable development. We intend to focus on the textile, horticulture and agricultural sectors for increased usage of renewable sources," Chakravorty said.

She was addressing a gathering at the 'Energy Conclave 2022 — Synergy in Energy' in Kolkata organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce on Friday.

S Suresh Kumar, additional chief secretary of the state power department said: "Decarbonisation has become of utmost importance in our lives. Carbon emission has to be reduced for a sustainable future. Hence, various green investments are taking place throughout the country. Environmental protection is the need of the hour in every sector which gives us ample opportunity to create potential losses due to climate

change."

Anil Razdan, Chairman, ICC National Expert Committee on Energy said: "As India is heavily dependent on coal for electricity generation and especially in the rural areas of the country, we must be aware of the consequences, hence a sustainable solution is required. The North Eastern part of India is surging as a prominent place for coal production."