Shillong, June 4, 2026 – In a significant push towards renewable energy adoption, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has announced that nearly 2,000 government schools across the state will soon run on solar power under the Chief Minister’s Solar Mission.
The announcement was made on Tuesday during the inauguration of a 50 kW Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Plant at St. Mary’s Higher Secondary School in Shillong, one of the larger school-based solar installations in the state to date.
According to the Chief Minister, over 1.5 MW of solar capacity has already been installed in nearly 700 schools. Work on the remaining approximately 1,300 schools is expected to commence shortly, marking a major milestone in the state’s green energy initiative.
The project aims to reduce dependence on conventional power sources, improve energy reliability in remote and rural areas, and promote sustainability in the education sector. Schools equipped with solar systems will also benefit from net metering facilities, allowing excess generated power to be fed back into the grid and potentially benefit nearby households.
Speaking at the event, CM Sangma emphasized the broader vision behind the initiative. “This is not just about powering schools — it is about building a culture of sustainability and innovation among our youth,” he said. As part of the mission, the government has also announced a new technology and innovation competition for students to encourage creative thinking in renewable energy and related fields.
Meghalaya, with its abundant rainfall and hilly terrain, has significant potential for renewable energy development. This large-scale solar rollout in educational institutions is seen as a strategic step to address power challenges while creating long-term environmental and economic benefits.
The initiative is expected to substantially cut electricity costs for government schools and serve as a model for other states in India’s Northeast region, where reliable power supply remains a key developmental concern.
This move aligns with national goals for increasing renewable energy capacity and transitioning towards cleaner energy sources.
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