Explanation:

 Solar energy capacity in Rajasthan has crossed the 10,000-megawatt milestone, accounting for 20% of the total capacity in the country.

According to data issued by the Ministry of New and renewable energy, Rajasthan has achieved more than 10GW solar capacity addition.

After the rollout of renewable energy policy, the scenario of the solar sector has drastically changed.

Due to state government’s pro-active approach, new projects are lining up in the state which will further firm up Rajasthan’s position as largest solar hub in the country.

The state would be a major contributor in achieving the Centre’s ambitious target of 500GW renewable energy capacity by 2030 announced by the Prime Minister.

Recently, the state government signed letter of intents and MoUs with public sector companies and private investors for a large number of projects.

The pipeline of new projects is very robust and it will further firm up the state’s position as the largest solar hub in the country, according to Additional chief secretary (mines, petroleum, energy).

According to Solar industry members in the state, while the availability of barren and semi-fertile land has been a major driver of new projects, the manufacturing segment has not kept pace with the generation.

The Solar industry members want to see the government reaching out to manufacturers to make solar components like cells, panels and inverters.

Unless manufacturing picks up, the benefits to the state will remain limited according to the prominent industry representatives operating in the state.