The Assam government’s new renewable energy policy has given a major boost to the state’s tea industry, allowing producers to integrate solar power efficiently. The North Eastern Tea Association (NETA) has welcomed the ‘Assam Integrated Clean Energy Policy,’ notified on February 24, calling it a game-changer for tea, coffee, and rubber industries.
NETA Advisor Bidyananda Barkakoty expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma for including tea estates in the policy. “We are extremely happy with this new policy. The tea industry can reap significant benefits from it,” he said.
A major highlight of the policy is the annual energy banking provision, a crucial change for Assam’s tea estates. Earlier, any excess solar energy generated could not be carried forward, making renewable energy adoption less feasible for seasonal industries like tea.
“Tea factories remain non-operational from December to February, with minimal production in March. Previously, the solar power generated during these months was wasted,” Barkakoty explained. “This policy now allows us to store and use that energy later, making solar power truly applicable.”
The new guidelines set a 1,000 kW limit for grid-connected rooftop solar power at a single location, helping industries offset their electricity costs.
NETA had earlier organized a seminar on “Prospects for Implementing Solar Power Projects in Tea Industries of Assam.” Industry stakeholders had then urged the state government to introduce an annual billing cycle instead of a monthly one— a request that has now been addressed in the policy.
Assam’s tea industry is poised for a green revolution with these changes. “The days are not far when all the tea factories of Assam will run 100% on solar energy,” Barkakoty said optimistically.
By embracing clean energy, Assam’s tea sector is set to reduce costs, improve sustainability, and contribute to India’s green energy goals.
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