The Kashmir industry body has urged the administration to drive a rooftop solar initiative across industrial estates under the central Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) scheme. It asked for coordinated implementation to facilitate installation of panels on factory roofs and shared infrastructure within estate precincts. The proposal aimed to reduce energy costs for units while improving energy security and environmental performance. Industry representatives highlighted the scheme as an opportunity to modernise energy supply for small manufacturing units.

They requested that the state nodal agency and estate managers be tasked with conducting technical surveys, preparing aggregated capacity plans and fast tracking approvals. The body sought clarity on financing modalities available under the central scheme and on procedures for net metering and grid connectivity. Attention was drawn to the need for vendor prequalification and standardised procurement to ensure quality and economies of scale. Support for training and operations and maintenance was also urged.

The advocacy noted that rooftop deployments could lower operational expenses by substituting expensive grid power and by stabilising supply during peak demand. Emphasis was placed on benefits to competitiveness for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and on the potential for modest employment in installation and maintenance services. The proposal avoided specifying targets or budgetary figures but framed the drive as a pragmatic step that aligned with broader moves towards cleaner energy across industrial clusters.

Officials and industry contacts were asked to set timelines and a clear decision matrix so that estates could begin preparatory work without delay. The industry body proposed periodic reviews to monitor rollout and to resolve technical or regulatory bottlenecks. It encouraged collaboration between central scheme administrators, the state government and estate associations to ensure that benefits reach smallest units. The request concluded with an appeal for policy clarity and prompt support to accelerate the transition.