In Rajasthan, the rapid expansion of solar energy has led to significant environmental degradation, with 25 lakh trees being cut down to make way for solar plants. This has caused a rise in temperature by up to 5 degrees in the region, along with the destruction of the desert’s unique biodiversity.
Key Details:
- Scale of Solar Energy Expansion: Over the past 14 years, 21,788 MW of solar energy capacity has been installed across Jodhpur, Bikaner, Barmer, and Jaisalmer. These plants occupy 1.08 lakh bighas of land.
- Impact on Trees: More than 25 lakh trees have been felled, with 70% being the state tree, Khejri. This tree is crucial for desert ecosystems but has been drastically reduced to make room for solar infrastructure.
Environmental Consequences:
- Loss of Oxygen: The removal of 25 lakh trees has led to an estimated loss of 25 crore liters of oxygen per month. Each Khejri tree, on average, produces around 100 liters of oxygen monthly, resulting in a significant reduction in clean air for the region.
- Increase in Temperature: Studies by Prof. Anil Kumar Chhangani and Dr. Richa Sharma from BITS Ranchi revealed that the average temperature at solar sites has risen by 4-5 degrees due to tree removal.
False Certificates Game Going On:
- Falsified Certificates: To expedite the installation of solar plants, false certificates are being issued during the registration process, falsely claiming that the land has no trees. This allows companies to bypass environmental audits and cut down trees without any compensatory plantation policies.
The Bigger Picture:
- Biodiversity at Risk: The Thar desert’s unique biodiversity is under threat due to the large-scale clearing of vegetation, especially Khejri trees, which are crucial for maintaining the desert’s ecological balance.
- No Replantation Policy: Despite the massive deforestation, there is no policy in place by the Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation (RREC) or the energy department to replant trees or compensate for the environmental damage.
Impact of Solar Plant Expansion in Rajasthan: Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Solar Capacity Installed | 21,788 MW in Jodhpur, Bikaner, Barmer, and Jaisalmer |
| Land Area Used | 1.08 lakh bighas |
| Trees Cut | 25 lakh (70% Khejri trees) |
| Oxygen Loss | 25 crore liters/month |
| Temperature Rise | 4-5 degrees Celsius |
| Environmental Policies | No compensatory plantation policy |
| False Certifications | Falsified claims of no trees on solar plant land |
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