SHIMLA, May 18: Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board and Solar Energy Corporation of India today signed a pact to form a 50:50 JV for implementation of solar power projects in the state.

According to the pact, a pilot 2.5 MW Solar Wind Hybrid Power Project would be set up at Rangrik in Lahaul and Spiti district and would be completed by October, 2017.

Apart from this project, the JV -- Himachal Pradesh Solar Power Corporation -- would also set up solar parks, solar power projects and projects in the renewable sector in other parts of the state.

The Rangrik project will be first of its kind in the country which would synchronise solar, wind, hydroelectric project with grid supply with help of large energy storage system. 

The project would benefit as many as 12,000 tribal habitants of Rangrik, Kaza, Tabo, Losar, Pin valley and other nearby areas.

The total estimated cost of the project is pegged at Rs 30.72 crore.

Solar Energy Corporation of India Ltd (SECI) is a central public sector undertaking (CPSU) under the administrative control of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

Meanwhile, Chaba to Saraur in Kol Dam Reservoir on Sutlej River has been declared a route for boats and ferries, a spokesperson of the state government said here today adding that a notification was being issued in this regard.