Patna: The Bihar Cabinet has approved a major renewable energy initiative to install 500 MW capacity rooftop solar plants on government buildings across the state over the next five years.
The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, where a total of 22 important proposals were approved.
The rooftop solar project aims to reduce electricity expenses of government institutions, promote clean energy usage and strengthen Bihar’s overall energy security.
500 MW Rooftop Solar Project to Be Implemented from 2025-26 to 2029-30
The government plans to implement the rooftop solar programme in phases during the financial years:
- 2025-26
- 2026-27
- 2027-28
- 2028-29
- 2029-30
Under this initiative, solar power systems will be installed on government buildings across Bihar to generate clean electricity and reduce dependence on conventional power sources.
The state government expects the project to bring significant savings in electricity costs while supporting environmental sustainability.
Solar Plants to Be Installed Under RESCO Model
The rooftop solar programme will be implemented through the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) model.
Under this system:
- Private agencies will install solar power plants using their own investment.
- The government will purchase electricity generated from these plants at a fixed tariff.
- Private companies will be responsible for operation and maintenance of the solar systems.
- Government departments will enter into power purchase agreements with these agencies.
This model will allow the government to expand solar capacity without making major upfront capital investments.
Initiative to Reduce Electricity Bills and Promote Green Energy
The Bihar government believes that the rooftop solar initiative will significantly reduce electricity expenses of government buildings.
The project is expected to:
- Increase renewable energy adoption
- Reduce carbon emissions
- Improve energy security
- Support environmental protection
- Lower long-term electricity costs
Experts believe the initiative could help Bihar move towards a cleaner energy future while reducing dependence on traditional energy sources.
Cabinet Approves ₹79.84 Crore Dalhan Self-Reliance Mission
Apart from the solar energy project, the Bihar Cabinet approved several other development proposals.
A major decision was the approval of the Dalhan Self-Reliance Mission with an allocation of ₹79.84 crore.
The mission aims to increase pulse production in the state and reduce dependence on external sources for meeting demand.
₹154 Crore Approved for Digital Agriculture Mission
The Cabinet also approved ₹154 crore under the Digital Agriculture Mission.
The funds will be used for:
- Farmer registration systems
- Digital crop surveys
- Strengthening technology-based agricultural services
The initiative aims to improve agricultural planning and provide better support to farmers through digital platforms.
Bihar Aquaculture Corporation and Dairy Infrastructure Get Approval
The Cabinet approved the formation of the Bihar Aquaculture Infrastructure and Development Corporation to strengthen the fisheries sector.
Additionally, state support was approved under COMFED for:
- Installation of bulk milk coolers
- Deployment of milk testing machines
The move aims to improve dairy infrastructure and enhance milk collection and processing facilities.
Greenfield Satellite Townships Approved in Four Cities
The Bihar government also approved land acquisition for developing greenfield satellite townships in:
- Patna
- Sonpur
- Gaya
- Muzaffarpur
The projects are expected to support planned urban expansion and improve infrastructure facilities in major cities.
Transport Sector Receives Major Boost
The Cabinet approved preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridors in four locations.
Additionally, ₹126.25 crore was sanctioned for repair work of the Vikramshila Bridge.
These decisions are aimed at improving transportation connectivity and strengthening road infrastructure in the state.
Education and Health Sector Decisions
The Cabinet also approved several measures for education and healthcare development.
Key decisions include:
- Extension of the Mukhyamantri Nishchay Swayam Sahayata Bhatta Yojana until 2030-31.
- Creation of 76 new teaching posts for M.Tech programmes in engineering colleges.
- Land acquisition approval for the expansion of AIIMS Patna.
- Land allocation for new Kendriya Vidyalayas in Madhubani, Munger and Muzaffarpur.
These initiatives aim to improve access to higher education and healthcare facilities across Bihar.
Bihar Focuses on Sustainable Growth and Infrastructure Development
The approval of the 500 MW rooftop solar programme along with other development projects highlights Bihar’s focus on renewable energy, agriculture, urban development, transport connectivity, education and healthcare.
The state government expects these initiatives to create long-term economic benefits while improving public infrastructure and promoting sustainable development across Bihar.
