Konark Sun Temple along with the Konark city would be solarised, informed the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

Minister of State, Power and MNRE RK Singh informed about this extravagant project of the Central government.

Speaking about the scheme he said, "The scheme has been launched by the Centre with the aim of developing Konark as Surya Nagri."

"This scheme is a way to take forward Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision," Singh further added.

"This scheme will convey the message of synergy between the modern use of solar energy and the ancient Sun Temple," he further said.

"The scheme will also further spread the message on the importance of promoting solar energy," Singh added.

As stated in the project report, the scheme envisages setting up of 10 MW grid-connected solar project and various solar off-grid applications.

Some of these solar applications are solar trees, solar drinking water kiosks, and off-grid solar power plants with battery storage.

The cost of the project would be around Rs 25 crores and it with 100 per cent Central Financial Assistance (CFA) support from MNRE.

Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency (OREDA) will do the implementation of this project, Singh further said.

"The scheme will meet the energy requirements of entire Konark town," Singh added.

Once the project in Konark is over, the government is expected to take up a few more solarisation projects in several other cities as well.

However, the list of those cities are yet to be finalised and it would be informed only after the current project is completed.

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