Background Paper on Solar Cities

Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) had launched a program on “Development of Solar Cities” in February 2008. The programme has been modified /revised vide no. 5/4/2013-14/SC dated 17th January 2014 for implementation during the 12th Five Year Plan. The Solar City aims at minimum 10% reduction in projected demand of conventional energy at the end of five years, which can be achieved through a combination of energy efficiency measures and enhancing supply from renewable energy sources in the City. A total of 60 cities/towns are proposed to be supported for development as “Solar/ Green Cities”. At least one city in each State to a maximum of seven cities in a State may be supported by the Ministry. The cities should have population between 5 to 50 lakh. Relaxation could be considered for special category states including North-Eastern States