Administrative Secretary, Power Development and New & Renewable Energy, Inaugurates First Commercial Rooftop Solar Installation at Hotel Barath, Leh.

Administrative Secretary, Power Development and New & Renewable Energy, Inaugurates First Commercial Rooftop Solar Installation at Hotel Barath, Leh.
Leh, April 07, 2026: Administrative Secretary, Power Development Department and New & Renewable Energy, Shri Rudra Goud P.T. inaugurated the first commercial rooftop solar installation at Hotel Barath, Leh, marking a significant milestone in Ladakh’s journey towards clean energy adoption and sustainable development.
Commending the management of Hotel Barath on this pioneering initiative, the Administrative Secretary described the installation as an important step not only at the individual and institutional level, but also for the Union Territory and the nation as a whole. He said that such initiatives contribute meaningfully towards the vision of a carbon-neutral Ladakh and promote the use of clean, renewable, and sustainable sources of energy.
He noted that rooftop solar systems are not only environmentally beneficial but also economically viable, helping consumers reduce long-term electricity costs while contributing to the broader goal of green energy transition.
The Administrative Secretary further observed that the tourism industry, which plays a vital role in Ladakh’s economy, can significantly benefit from such initiatives. He said that solar-powered hospitality infrastructure would not only help hotels manage their energy consumption more efficiently but also strengthen Ladakh’s image as a green and sustainable tourism destination, thereby attracting environmentally conscious travellers.
Encouraging wider adoption, he urged more hotels, entrepreneurs, and commercial establishments across Ladakh to avail themselves of the opportunities available under rooftop solar initiatives. He also pointed out that official loan facilities are available, particularly through MSME-linked support mechanisms, making such investments increasingly feasible for local business owners. He added that rooftop solar installations, once set up, can become highly cost-effective over time, and in many cases significantly reduce or even eliminate electricity bills after a few years of operation.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Engineer, PDD Ladakh, Tsewang Paljor, also congratulated Hotel Bharat for becoming the first commercial establishment in Ladakh to launch such an installation. He explained the practical and financial benefits of rooftop solar systems. He further stated that proposals regarding a broader solar policy had already been placed before the competent authority, and that commercial rooftop solar remains a promising avenue even in the absence of direct subsidy in certain cases, particularly due to its long-term savings and efficiency benefits.
He also shared that, depending on the category and system type, substantial support and financial viability exist for consumers opting for rooftop solar installations. In addition to reducing power bills, such systems also help improve voltage stability and ease pressure on the conventional grid. He noted that several more hotels are already in the pipeline for similar installations and appealed to other hospitality establishments to come forward and benefit from this clean energy solution.
Addressing the gathering, President, All Ladakh Hotel & Guest House Association Leh, Rigzin Wangmo Lachic, said that the inauguration of the first commercial rooftop solar installation was the result of sustained efforts over the past five years. She described the development as a proud moment not only for Ladakh but also as a model initiative for the tourism and hospitality sector. She emphasised that tourism remains one of the most important sectors in Ladakh and that initiatives such as rooftop solar can help address concerns related to energy tariffs while promoting environmentally responsible growth.
The event was also attended by Superintending Engineer Tundup Spalzang, representatives of various trade and business bodies including the Hotel Association, ALTOA, ALGHA, Merchant Association, officials from TATA, Silk Route Energy, and other stakeholders.