The Tripura Renewable Energy Development Agency (TREDA) has received the Silver Medal at the 105th SKOCH Awards, marking a major milestone in the state’s renewable energy journey. The award ceremony took place in New Delhi, where Sameer Kochhar, Chairman and Managing Director of the SKOCH Group, presented the honour.
TREDA earned the recognition for its innovative deployment of solar-powered microgrids in remote and tribal regions of Tripura. These areas, marked by difficult terrain and limited connectivity, have struggled for decades with unreliable or non-existent electricity supply.
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Powering Remote Tribal Regions
Large parts of Tripura’s hilly interior remained beyond the reach of conventional power grids due to dense forests and poor road access. In several villages, extending transmission lines proved impractical and costly. Even locations with partial grid connectivity faced frequent outages, especially during the monsoon season.
To address these challenges, TREDA implemented a decentralized solar energy model. The agency installed solar microgrids that provide round-the-clock electricity without depending on long-distance transmission networks.
274 Solar Microgrids Under PM-DEVINE
Under the Central Government’s Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DEVINE) scheme, TREDA partnered with the Tripura government to roll out the project. The agency commissioned 274 solar microgrids with capacities ranging from 2 kW to 25 kW.
Together, the microgrids generate nearly 3 MW of clean energy. The project now supplies electricity to 9,762 households across 247 tribal habitations. The total project cost stands at ₹81.02 crore.
Each beneficiary household received four LED lights and a mobile charging point. TREDA also installed solar-powered streetlights, which now illuminate village roads, community spaces, and pathways after sunset.
Challenging Terrain, Lasting Solutions
Field inspections revealed the extreme logistical challenges involved in executing the project. Many habitations lie 15 to 20 kilometres from the nearest motorable road. Transporting equipment and materials required careful planning and coordination.
Despite these hurdles, TREDA teams completed installations on schedule. The decentralized solar systems now ensure stable power supply even during adverse weather conditions.
Transforming Daily Life in Villages
The solar microgrids have brought visible changes to daily life in tribal villages. Families no longer depend on kerosene lamps, which posed health and fire hazards. Reliable lighting allows children to study after dark and improves learning outcomes.
Local artisans and shopkeepers have extended their working hours, leading to higher incomes. Mobile charging facilities and television access have improved connectivity, enabling residents to stay informed about government schemes, healthcare services, and market opportunities.
Solar streetlights have also enhanced safety and mobility at night. Villagers now participate in community activities after sunset, strengthening social life and cohesion.
Recognition for Sustainable Development
The SKOCH Award highlights TREDA’s contribution to sustainable development and inclusive growth. By combining renewable energy with community-focused planning, the agency has improved living standards in some of Tripura’s most underserved areas.
Officials said the recognition reinforces TREDA’s commitment to expanding clean energy solutions across the state. The agency plans to scale up similar projects to support Tripura’s transition toward a greener and more resilient energy future.
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