Three crore solar lanterns to spread eco-friendly lighting
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has planned to acquire about three crore solar lanterns in different phases to replace kerosene oil lamps used by majority of people in villages, the Minister for NRE, Vilas Muttemwar said.
“Our Ministry has decided to launch a massive drive to achieve two objectives of saving money on kerosene oil subsidy and at the same time provide solar lanterns in the villages as an alternative to kerosene oil lamps, which has a bright light and is eco-friendly too,” he said.
He said the centre is giving over Rs 30 per litre subsidy on kerosene.
It is being sold at Public Distribution System (PDS) at Rs 9 per litre.
The total subsidy was to the tune of Rs 39,000 crores per annum. If the petroleum ministry takes drastic steps of reducing at least 20 per cent consumption of kerosene oil, it will save Rs 8,000 crore.
Electronics Corporation of India, BHEL, Tata and other companies were manufacturing solar lanterns with government clearance. A good quality solar lantern costs Rs 3,200 with a six hour function. -
Within five years, the petroleum ministry can stop giving subsidy on kerosene oil, he said.
The ministry has also sought help from state Chief Ministers and power ministers to promote generation of non-conventional energy.
It has offered assistance in solar thermal energy, solar photo vaultic, and wind energy projects to enhance the power generation in the country. India’s 56 per cent population was still far away from energy, he said.
The Ministry has also mooted a proposal of generating 2000 mw solar thermal energy to overcome the loadshedding and energy shortage.
It has received an overwhelming response as 2000 applications have been received including 600 from Rajasthan even though government had kept Rs 25,000 price for application forms, Muttemwar said.
PTI
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