(a) the criteria for the selection of cities to be developed as solar cities in the country;
(b) the names of the cities identified by the Government to be developed as solar cities in the country, State-wise;
(c) whether any task force has been set up to monitor such cities; and
(d) if so, the details thereof ?
THE MINISTER OF NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY (DR. FAROOQ ABDULLAH)
(a), (b), (c) &(d): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.
Statement
Statement referred to reply to Lok Sabha Starred Question no. 227 by Shri JAYANT CHAUDHARY
and Shri DHRUVA NARAYANA for answer on 11.03.2011.
(a): The criteria set by the Ministry for selection of cities to be developed as Solar
Cities include a city population between 0.50 to 50 lakh (with relaxation given to North-
Eastern and hilly States, Islands and Union Territories) and initiatives already taken by
the city in promoting renewable energy & energy efficiency and also a high level of
commitment.
(b): Based on proposals received by the Government from various States, in-principle
approval has been given to 48 Cities to be developed as Solar Cities in the country. Out of
these, sanctions have been issued to 31 Cities which have engaged consultants for preparation
of Master Plan. The State-wise details are given in Annexure.
(c)&(d): No Madam. The implementation of Solar Cities programme is being monitored
by State Nodal Agencies of Renewable Energy in respective States.