Current Energy Scenario in Assam

Assam sources over 70% of its electricity from fossil fuels (coal and gas).
Only 9% of its power comes from renewable sources.
The State is energy-deficient and heavily reliant on long transmission lines from distant thermal plants, leading to high transmission losses and grid stress.

Rooftop Solar (RTS) Mapping & Potential:

A new study reveals Assam can generate over 13,000 MW of electricity through rooftop solar installations.
This capacity is enough to meet 100% of Assam’s annual power demand (based on current consumption).
Total rooftop area available: 737.1 km², with 86% in rural areas.
95% of the rooftop potential lies in residential and mixed-use buildings.

Key Urban Zones with High RTS Potential:

Guwahati alone can host 625–985 MW of rooftop solar capacity.
High-potential localities: Lokhra, Garchuk, Khanapara, Garbhanga, Sarusajai, Borsajai, Sawkuchi, Dakhingaon, Basistha, Dispur, Kahilipara.

Policy Initiatives & Targets

Assam’s Clean Energy Policy now targets 1,900 MW of rooftop solar by 2030 (up from 300 MW).
Current installed capacity in Assam: only 75 MW.
Comparative figures: Gujarat – 5,300 MW; Maharashtra – 3,400 MW.

Incentives & Subsidies

State subsidy: Rs 15,000 per kW
Central subsidy (PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana): Rs 33,000 per kW.
Total effective subsidy: up to Rs 48,000 per kW, bringing down capital cost for households and institutions.

Benefits of Rooftop Solar

Reduces household electricity bills by 50% to 90%
Provides reliable backup during peak demand and power outages.
Generates zero-carbon, decentralised energy, enhancing energy equity.
Assam experiences 280+ sunny days annually, making solar energy highly dependable.
Potential to create up to 1.8 lakh green jobs (approx. 14 jobs per MW installed).

Recommendations for Unlocking Rooftop Solar Potential

Simplify processes: Make approval and subsidy applications fast, transparent, and paperless.
Enhance financing access: Collaborate with banks and rural institutions to offer low-interest solar loans.
Ensure quality: Establish State-certified installer registry and district-level training centres.
Demonstration projects: Promote rooftop solar in government buildings, schools, markets, and residential complexes.
Ensure policy-action coherence: Set time-bound targets for installations, disbursements, and training programs.

A rooftop-driven model aligns with Assam’s land constraints and community structure. It represents a people-powered, inclusive, and climate-resilient solution to Assam’s energy crisis.