Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the centenary celebrations of Bharat Sevashram Sangha through video conferencing, in New Delhi on Sunday. (PTI Photo)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday called for the setting up of some model solar cities in the country. Modi made this proposal while reviewing the progress of key infrastructure sectors including petroleum and natural gas, power, renewable energy and housing. The meeting was attended by top officials of PMO, NITI Aayog and all infrastructure Ministries of the Government of India.

As per the proposal of the PM, model solar cities would fully powered by solar energy. He also called for making certain localities of the country kerosene-free.

If created, Modi’s model solar city would be the first of its kind in the world, fully dependent on the renewable energy. Such city may inspire other cities of India and the world to make a concerted effort towards increasing their dependence on the green energy.

According to a PMO release, India’s total renewable generation capacity has crossed 57 GigaWatts, with an increase of 24.5% being registered in the last fiscal year. The capacity addition in solar energy in Financial Year 2017 was the highest-ever at 81%. Solar and wind tariffs have now achieved grid parity, with rates well below 4 rupees per Kilowatt-Hour.

To realize the model solar city vision, PM Modi asked officials to give priority to the manufacturing of solar equipment, to drive employment generation, and derive maximum benefit from the renewable energy drive.

PM Modi’s proposal to establish model solar cities is in line with his continued focus on renewable energy. On several occasions in past, PM Modi has talked about India’s high potential in the renewable energy sector and it is his vision to see India as a leader in green energy.

PM Modi has also created the International Solar Alliance and over 20 countries including France and Brazil have joined the initiative and more are expected to join. The initiative provides a platform for 121 expected member countries to join hands and sort out the identified gaps through a common agreed approach to tap solar energy.