(a) whether the Government has decided to develop 55 cities in 27 States and Union Territories as Green/Solar cities;
(b) if so, the details thereof, cities and State-wise;
(c) the criteria set up by the Government for identification of these cities;
(d) the financial assistance earmarked/provided to these solar cities; and
(e) the current status of solar cities, State-wise including in Rajasthan?
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR POWER, COAL & NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) (SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL)
(a)&(b): The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has approved 55 solar cities projects under the Development of Solar Cities Programme so far. State-wise details of solar cities are given in Annexure.
(c): The criteria set by the Ministry for identification of cities include a city having population between 50,000 to 50 lakh (with relaxation given to special category States including North-East States), initiatives and regulatory measures already taken along with a high level of commitment in promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy.
(d): A total amount of Rs. 66.50 crore has been sanctioned for Master Plans, solar city cells, promotional activities and installation of renewable energy projects. Against this an amount of Rs.23.87 crore has been released so far.
(e): The current status of preparation of master plans, creation of solar city cells and approval of solar cities including in Rajasthan is given in Annexure.
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