Ladakh generated zero solar power in five years

Despite being labelled the “solar capital” of India, the Union Territory of Ladakh has not produced any solar power over the past five years, according to data tabled in the Rajya Sabha.

In response to a question by MP Sana Satish Babu, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Shripad Yesso Naik confirmed that Ladakh has not generated even one unit of solar electricity between 2020 and 2025. This is despite the region’s estimated 13 GW solar potential and over 300 sunny days annually.

Tenders for large-scale solar projects in Leh and Kargil were issued in 2018, with a 48-month deadline. However, no project has been completed so far. Flagship schemes such as PM-Surya Ghar and ultra-mega solar parks have made little headway in the region.