Maharashtra to Generate 16 GW Solar Power by Year-End: CM Fadnavis at Davos

• CM Devendra Fadnavis announced at the World Economic Forum in Davos that Maharashtra will generate 16 gigawatts of electricity through solar energy by the end of this year.
• Maharashtra implemented Asia's largest decentralized solar energy program, transforming the energy sector in less than a decade.
• The state shifted agricultural electricity load to solar, reducing supply costs for farmers from 8 rupees to less than 3 rupees per unit, easing burden on other consumers.
• Under 'PM Surya Ghar Yojana', 4 gigawatts of rooftop solar systems will be operational, and Maharashtra accounts for 60% of all solar pumps installed in India.
• The solar initiatives are projected to save $10 billion in electricity purchase costs over five years and reduce carbon emissions equivalent to planting 300 crore trees.

Why It Matters: Maharashtra is set to achieve 16 GW solar power by year-end, transforming its energy sector and economy.