JaisalmerandPushkarwill be developed as solar cities in the state, according to state energy ministerB D Kalla. Chairing a meeting of senior officials from related departments including district administration, transport, energy, urban and local-self-government, the minister said rooftop solar power systems, solar parks, solar street lights and solar powered-power electric vehicles will be key features of the cities.

All the energy requirements of these cities will be met from solar sources, Kalla said. The projects will be implemented under the solar city scheme of theUnion Ministry of New and Renewable EnergyandRajasthanRenewable Energy Corporation will work as a nodal agency.
The programme aims at reduction in projected demand of conventional energy which can be achieved through a combination of Energy Efficiency measures and enhancing supply from sources. The exercise involves preparing the master plan taking into the needs of various sectors. Energy base-line for the city has to be documented in detail factoring in existing energy demand and supply scenario. It consists of sector-wise energy consumption matrix and energy supply-mix for the Base Year.

The programme assists urban local governments in preparation of a master plan for increasing energy efficiency and renewable energy supply in the city, setting-up institutional arrangements for the implementation of the master plan and creating awareness and capacity building activities.