Shimla: A one day workshop on 'Bio-Mass Power- Issues and Challenges' was organised by Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India here today in which the heads of Conventional Energy Department from different parts of the country participated alongwith senior officers of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri G.B. Pradhan, Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India said that there was enough scope for Bio and hydel power in the State of Himachal Pradesh which was also being exploited to a great extent. He said that Himachal Pradesh had vast wealth of pine forests and due to their high volatile contents the pine needles can also be used for producing power. He said that potential of producing 20000 MW bio mass energy was available in the country and so far only 3800 MW had been exploited.

Shri S. Roy, Chief Secretary, Himachal Pradesh said that there was a need to initiate various steps to meet the challenges posed due to increase in rates of petroleum products and exploitation of conventional means could pave the ways to mitigate the same. He lauded the efforts of the department for undertaking steps for harnessing bio mass energy in the State.

Earlier, Shri Tarun Kapoor, Joint Secretary, New and Renewable Energy, Government of India welcomed the participants.

Shri N.P. Singh, Advisor to the Ministry of Renewal Energy proposed vote of thanks.