By Shishir Prashant 
PrashantNews
Dehradun: Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister Solar Self-Employment Scheme (MSSY) is emerging as a key initiative to create livelihood opportunities for local residents while promoting green energy in the state.
As of June 2026, 1,132 solar power plants have been commissioned under the scheme, with a combined capacity of 2,10,420 kW (around 210 MW). The projects are providing direct and indirect employment to more than 3,500 people, according to official figures.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has set a target of developing 250 MW of solar power capacity under the scheme. Local residents can establish solar plants of 20, 25, 50, 100 and 200 kW capacities, with beneficiaries eligible for incentives and benefits under the MSME Policy-2023.
Tehri district has emerged as the frontrunner, with 369 solar plants having a combined capacity of 69,050 kW. Uttarkashi follows with 227 plants generating 43,660 kW, while Champawat has 144 plants with a combined capacity of 28,200 kW.
Haridwar has 86 plants with 16,900 kW capacity, followed by Pauri with 88 plants (15,440 kW) and Chamoli with 72 plants (11,725 kW). Though solar projects have also been established in Almora, Dehradun, Rudraprayag, Bageshwar, Nainital, Pithoragarh and Udham Singh Nagar, the figures were not available.
The government sees the scheme as more than an initiative to expand renewable energy. It is also aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and employment in rural and hilly areas, strengthening local economic activity and helping reduce migration from the hills.
Commenting on the solar power plants in the state, CM Dhami said the government was working to expand local entrepreneurship and employment opportunities through sectors such as solar energy, while simultaneously strengthening the economy of Uttarakhand’s mountain region