The Chief Minister inaugurated a 70 megawatt solar power plant at Khudigaon, Bilasipara, Dhubri, marking a major milestone in Assam’s renewable energy transition. 

• On the same day, financial assistance was distributed to 18,375 women beneficiaries under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyaan, popularly known as Lakhpati Baideu.

Key features of the solar project

• Capacity: 70 megawatt, Assam’s first utility-scale solar plant
• Land area: Around 1,000 bighas of encumbrance-free government land
• Cost: Over ₹350 crore
• Infrastructure:
  • 1,80,605 solar modules
  • Dedicated switchyard and control room
  • 6-kilometre transmission line to Bilasipara grid sub-station
• Expected output: About 141 million units of electricity annually
• Environmental impact: Reduction of nearly 1.15 lakh tonnes of carbon emissions per year

A power purchase agreement has been signed between Assam Power Distribution Company Limited and the implementing agency at a tariff of ₹3.92 per unit. The developer will operate and maintain the project for 25 years.

Why is this significant for Assam?

• Assam’s solar generation was earlier negligible; with this project, total solar capacity has reached about 680 megawatt.
• Strengthens energy self-reliance and reduces dependence on conventional power sources.
• Supports India’s broader climate commitments under renewable energy expansion and emission reduction.
• Another 50 megawatt solar project at Barchala (Sonitpur) is under construction, indicating scale-up.

One-line wrap

The Bilasipara solar plant marks Assam’s shift from negligible solar generation to a credible green energy future.

Exam Hook 

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Bilasipara solar power project:

1. It is Assam’s first utility-scale solar power plant.
2. The project is expected to generate over 140 million units of electricity annually.
3. The power purchase tariff has been fixed at less than ₹4 per unit.

Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 3 only

Correct answer: (c)

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