Tripura's Solar-Powered Microgrid Project Shines at SKOCH Awards
In a significant development for renewable energy in North East India, the Tripura Renewable Energy Development Agency (TREDA) has been honored with the Silver Medal at the 105th SKOCH Awards for 2025. This recognition is a testament to TREDA's commitment to providing sustainable energy solutions in remote tribal areas of Tripura.
Inclusive Development through Solar-Powered Microgrids
The award, presented by Sameer Kochhar, Chairman and Managing Director of the SKOCH Group, was conferred under the national welfare category for initiatives contributing to inclusive development. The solar-powered microgrid projects implemented by TREDA have brought electricity to remote and hilly tribal habitations, addressing decades-long energy access issues that hindered education, healthcare, and livelihoods.
Empowering Remote Villages
Under the Prime Minister's Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DEVINE) scheme, TREDA, in partnership with the Tripura government, has installed 274 solar microgrids across 247 remote tribal habitations. These projects, with a total installed capacity of around 3 megawatt, have benefited 9,762 households. Each beneficiary household has received four LED lights and one mobile charging point, while solar-powered streetlights have been installed to improve night-time mobility in villages.
Overcoming Challenges in Remote Areas
Many of these habitations are located far from accessible points, making grid connectivity difficult. In areas with partial grid access, frequent power disruptions had affected daily activities, particularly during the monsoon and pre-monsoon periods. The availability of solar power has enabled children to study after sunset, allowed traditional livelihood activities to continue during evening hours, and enabled small shops to operate after dark.
Implications for North East India and Beyond
This award-winning project holds significant implications for the North East region and India as a whole. By demonstrating the viability of solar-powered microgrids in remote areas, TREDA's initiative paves the way for sustainable energy solutions that can overcome the challenges posed by terrain and distance. As India strives to achieve its target of 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022, projects like TREDA's can serve as models for inclusive and sustainable development.
Looking Forward
The success of TREDA's solar-powered microgrid projects underscores the potential for renewable energy to transform lives in remote and underserved areas. As we move forward, it is essential to continue investing in sustainable energy solutions that prioritize inclusivity and contribute to the overall development of the North East region and India.