Bihar's Solar Revolution: Pioneering Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future

Known for its agriculture-driven economy, Bihar is now emerging as a key player in India’s renewable energy sector, particularly in solar power. With 75% of its population reliant on agriculture, the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, is rewriting Bihar’s development story by tapping into the immense potential of solar energy.

Despite its current production capacity of only 180 MW, Bihar has the potential to generate up to 11,000 MW of solar energy. To harness this potential, the state government has launched several initiatives, including the Solar Rooftop Subsidy Scheme, which offers financial incentives to consumers installing solar panels. The scheme aims to ensure uninterrupted irrigation for farmers while reducing dependence on traditional energy sources. So far, 2,771 solar water pumps with capacities of 2 to 3 horsepower have been installed under the initiative.

The solar energy sector in Bihar has attracted significant investment interest. To encourage private players, electricity companies in the state have committed to purchasing all electricity produced by solar energy units for the next 25 years. This long-term assurance has catalyzed the installation of solar plants in remote areas such as the Adhaura block in Kaimur and the forests of West Champaran, where mini-grid and stand-alone solar plants are providing electricity to thousands of households.

• 12,048 houses are now powered through stand-alone solar systems.
• 32,050 houses receive power via mini-grid solar plants.

To further expand solar energy infrastructure, the government has initiated plans to install 10 solar streetlights in every village ward under the 7 Nischay Phase-2 program. Additionally, 20 MW of grid-connected rooftop solar panels are being set up, with online applications and tenders already completed.

Under the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan, the state has introduced rooftop solar power plants on private buildings. In addition to the central government’s grant, the Bihar government is providing a 25% subsidy to consumers. So far, 643 houses have installed rooftop solar panels, generating a total capacity of 2.06 MW.

Both of Bihar's electricity distribution companies are actively promoting grid-connected rooftop solar systems to help achieve sustainable energy goals.

Bihar’s energy infrastructure has seen remarkable improvements:

• The number of grid sub-stations has increased from 45 in 2005 to 161 today.
• The transmission line network has expanded from 5,000 circuit kilometers to 18,812 circuit kilometers.
• Power evacuation capacity has grown from 1,000 MW to 13,568 MW.
• The number of power sub-stations has risen from 268 in 2005 to 1,231, ensuring reliable electricity supply across all subdivisions and blocks.

Beyond energy, Bihar’s development efforts are also visible in urban projects like the Urja Stadium, inaugurated on October 28, 2016, by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Located in Vidyut Colony, the stadium was constructed in just one year, transforming a neglected, garbage-filled area into a modern facility meeting BCCI standards for home matches. This project not only utilized the land effectively but also fostered enthusiasm among local athletes.

The state’s efforts in the solar energy sector have garnered widespread acclaim across the country. Bihar’s initiatives reflect its commitment to sustainable development, a cleaner environment, and energy self-reliance. By integrating renewable energy with agriculture and infrastructure, Bihar is lighting the way for a greener and more prosperous future.