The Administrative Council’s decision to solarize all government buildings in Jammu & Kashmir is a step in the right direction. By approving the installation of Grid-Tied Rooftop solar power systems with an aggregate capacity of 70 MW in Capex mode and 200 MW in RESCO mode, the government is making a substantial investment in sustainable energy. The project aims to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 8.3 million tons over 25 years. This is a crucial step in mitigating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability in the region. The creation of more than 10,800 jobs for highly skilled, skilled, and unskilled workers is a significant economic boon. Additionally, the project will stimulate job creation in the manufacturing and supply of solar PV grid-connected project equipment, further boosting the local economy. By leveraging the vast rooftop spaces of government establishments, the project will enhance energy efficiency and reduce electricity costs for government buildings. The inclusion of bi-directional smart meters and Virtual Net Metering (VNM) will ensure that excess energy generated can be efficiently utilized, maximizing the benefits of the solar installations. The project’s implementation by the Jammu & Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JKEDA) and its maintenance by empanelled vendors for five years at no additional cost to the government ensure long-term sustainability and reliability of the solar power systems. The RESCO mode, which involves Power Purchase Agreements for 25 years, introduces an innovative financial model that can attract private investment and expertise, thereby reducing the financial burden on the government. The ambitious timeline, targeting completion by the end of December 2025, will require meticulous planning and execution. Therefore, the decision to solarize government buildings in Jammu & Kashmir is a laudable move towards a sustainable future. It not only addresses environmental concerns but also offers economic and energy efficiency benefits. Successful implementation of this project could serve as a model for other regions in India and beyond. Pertinently, India added a record 13.7 gigawatts of power in the first quarter of 2024, with renewables making up 71.5% of this new capacity, according to the Institute of Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA). From January to March, the majority of the new capacity came from solar (62.1%) and wind (8.4%). Moreover, India’s 2024-2025 budget presents a visionary plan that prioritizes renewable energy and advanced nuclear technology. The expansion of exemptions for capital goods used in solar cell and panel manufacturing underscores India’s dedication to leveraging its vast solar resources. This move enhances domestic manufacturing capabilities and reduces dependence on imported materials. Notably, India’s renewable energy strategy includes a robust energy storage component through its innovative Pumped Storage Policy. This policy addresses a critical challenge of solar and wind power – intermittency and variability. By investing in pumped storage projects, India will capture and store excess renewable energy during peak production periods for use when renewable generation declines. This approach is crucial for ensuring a stable and continuous power supply, essential for meeting energy demands and promoting widespread adoption of renewable technologies.