Australian Consul General Meets Bihar’s Energy Minister to Discuss Solar Power Initiatives

Patna: Australia is mulling to invest in Bihar’s renewable energy sector, with discussions between Australian Consul General Hugh Boylan and Bihar’s Energy Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav held on Monday at Urja Bhawan. Boylan, who is on a two-day visit to Bihar, explored potential collaboration in this burgeoning sector.

During the meeting, Minister Yadav briefed the Consul General on ongoing renewable energy initiatives in Bihar, emphasizing the state’s investment-friendly policies. The discussions also included senior officials such as Energy Department Secretary Pankaj Kumar Pal and SBPDCL Managing Director Nilesh Deore.

The Australian Consul General expressed optimism about the prospects, assuring that an Australian company would soon visit Bihar to further discussions, particularly regarding investments in solar energy.

Minister Yadav highlighted several opportunities for solar power in Bihar, noting the potential for floating solar power plants on the numerous rivers, canals, ponds, and drains in North Bihar. He mentioned that two such plants have already been commissioned in Darbhanga and Supaul. Additionally, the minister pointed out the potential for solar power plants on treeless mountains in South Bihar.

Energy Department Secretary Pankaj Kumar Pal added that the state is actively promoting non-conventional energy under the Water-Life-Greenery Mission. He noted that solar panels have been installed on over 3,500 government buildings, with plans approved to extend this to 9,000 buildings within the next two years.