Assam has a staggering rooftop solar (RTS) potential of up to 13,428 MW, but currently, it’s generating just 60 MW. Officials say the state is working hard to bridge this gap. The Assam government’s Integrated Clean Energy Policy (ICEP) aims to boost RTS capacity to 1,900 MW by 2030, a huge leap from the earlier target of 300 MW under the Assam Renewable Energy Policy (AREP), 2022.
Hirdesh Mishra, CEO of Assam Climate Change Management Society (ACCMS), acknowledges the state’s reliance on fossil fuels but emphasizes a strong push toward clean energy. Assam, one of India’s most climate-vulnerable states, urgently needs this shift. Mishra points out that financial constraints are a major hurdle, but as costs decrease, rooftop solar adoption is expected to rise.
The technical potential for RTS in Assam ranges between 7,321 MW in a conservative scenario and 13,428 MW in a high-utilisation scenario. With strong policy support, growing consumer interest, and an expanding vendor network, the state could see rapid growth in solar adoption. Assam Power Distribution Corporation Limited (APDCL) is leading the charge, overseeing RTS projects across government, commercial, industrial, and residential sectors.
Baishali Talukdar, Deputy Manager at APDCL, highlights progress under the PM Surya Ghar Scheme, with 20,000 solar installations totaling 60 MW. However, challenges like low consumer awareness, a shortage of skilled vendors, high upfront costs, and loan delays persist. APDCL is tackling these issues through awareness campaigns, vendor empanelment, and digital processing solutions.
Research by environmental think-tank iFOREST underscores Assam’s rooftop solar opportunity. Mandvi Singh, iFOREST Programme Director, notes that RTS is land-neutral, making it ideal for a state where land acquisition for large-scale projects is difficult. Fully utilizing the 13,428 MW potential could power all of Assam and create 180,000 jobs.
Guwahati alone could generate between 625 MW and 984 MW of RTS power. However, most installations are concentrated near the capital, leaving areas like Barak Valley underserved. Compared to western and southern states, Assam lags in renewables due to its reliance on thermal power, land constraints, and policy challenges.
Solar energy potential varies across Assam, with southern districts like Hailakandi, Cachar, and Karimganj receiving the highest solar insolation. Northern districts like Dhemaji and Tinsukia have the least. Despite these variations, Assam’s rooftop solar potential remains a game-changer for its energy future.
With the right policy, financial support, and awareness, Assam could become a leader in solar energy. The transition won’t be easy, but the rewards—cleaner power, job creation, and energy independence—are worth the effort.