Nestled in the hills of Northeast India, Manipur is often called the “Jewel of the East.” With abundant sunshine and a growing need for sustainable energy, the Manipur Solar Policy has been designed to transform this picturesque state into a model of renewable growth.
The state’s solar policy focuses on reducing reliance on imported electricity, expanding access to clean energy in remote areas, and creating new opportunities in green employment and investment.
Harnessing Sunshine for Sustainable Growth:
Manipur’s terrain — with its valleys, hills, and scattered rural communities — makes decentralized solar energy a perfect solution for reliable power access.
The Manipur Renewable Energy Development Agency (MANIREDA) plays a crucial role in promoting rooftop solar systems, off-grid solar projects, and solar irrigation under the MNRE (Ministry of New and Renewable Energy).
Through its latest Solar Power Policy (2020–2025), the Manipur government aims to:
• Increase the share of renewables in the state’s energy mix.
• Promote both grid-connected and stand-alone solar systems.
• Enable rural electrification and agricultural modernization.
Key Objectives of the Manipur Solar Policy:
1. Enhance energy security through local renewable power generation.
2. Encourage rooftop solar adoption in households, schools, hospitals, and government buildings.
3. Promote private investment in solar parks and distributed generation.
4. Support livelihood programs through solar pumping and micro-grids.
5. Reduce carbon emissions and align with India’s net-zero commitment for 2070.
Major Highlights of the Policy:
1. Rooftop Solar Systems
• All households, institutions, and commercial buildings can install rooftop solar systems ranging from 1 kW to 500 kW.
• Net metering enables consumers to feed surplus power into the grid and receive credit on electricity bills.
• Residential users can avail up to 40% subsidy on systems up to 3 kW and 20% subsidy for 3–10 kW systems.
2. Utility-Scale and Solar Parks
To attract investors and large developers, the government plans to establish solar parks in high-irradiation zones such as Imphal East, Thoubal, and Bishnupur.
Key incentives include:
• Land leasing assistance through government facilitation.
• Exemption from transmission and wheeling charges for the first 10 years.
• Simplified single-window clearance system for project approvals.
3. Off-Grid & Rural Solar Programs
Given the state’s terrain and scattered villages, MANIREDA focuses on off-grid and stand-alone systems, including:
• Solar home lighting systems
• Solar micro-grids for remote hill areas
• Solar water pumps for irrigation
• Solar street lighting in rural settlements
Incentives and Financial Support:
| Category | Incentive / Scheme | Details |
| Residential Users | 30–40% Subsidy | MNRE + MANIREDA scheme for rooftop systems |
| Farmers (PM-KUSUM) | 30–60% Subsidy | For solar irrigation pumps |
| Commercial/Industrial | Accelerated Depreciation | 40% tax benefit on capital cost |
| Large-Scale Projects | Exemption | Open-access and transmission charge waiver for 10 years |
Environmental & Economic Impact:
Manipur’s solar initiatives bring both environmental and economic benefits:
• Reduces dependence on conventional grid imports from Assam and Tripura.
• Saves thousands of tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.
• Creates green jobs in installation, maintenance, and supply chains.
• Strengthens energy access in previously unelectrified villages.
These combined impacts align with India’s broader renewable energy vision and the North East Renewable Mission.
Challenges & Strategic Interventions:
Despite rapid progress, Manipur faces certain hurdles:
• Limited availability of flat land for large solar parks.
• Transmission challenges in hilly terrain.
• Need for better consumer awareness and skilled manpower.
To counter these, the government and MANIREDA are:
• Encouraging floating solar projects on water bodies.
• Establishing training centers for local solar technicians.
• Expanding community awareness programs for rooftop adoption.
Conclusion:
The Manipur Solar Policy represents a vital step toward self-reliant, clean, and inclusive development. By harnessing its abundant sunlight, Manipur is not only illuminating homes but also empowering communities to thrive sustainably.
With ongoing policy support, financial incentives, and technological innovation, Manipur is well on its way to becoming a solar leader in Northeast India — brightening both its future and its environment.
