Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy Dr Farooq Abdullah has said the utilisation of non conventional energy will be encouraged in all backward, especially Naxal infested areas in the country. Inaugurating the Solarcon 2010, the country’s largest solar-energy-focussed event, in Hyderabad on Wednesday morning, the Minister has said all possible assistance will be extended for setting up Solar, Mini-Hydel and Wind Energy projects in these areas. Emphasising on the need to have focus on research in solar energy sector, he expressed hope that the target of 1000 MW solar power generation capacity set by the National Solar Mission will be achieved by the year 2012. Stating that a proposal is under consideration to appoint a Chairman who has in-depth knowledge over solar energy to lead a team of experts to strive for the development of the sector in eth country, the Minister said a bankers meeting will be held in Mumbai during last week of August to address the problems of solar energy entrepreneurs. Calling upon the entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in the solar energy sector, Union Urban Development Minister S Jaipal Reddy said the National Mission for Sustainable Habitat was aimed at reducing dependence on conventional energy in urban areas. Emphasising on the need to adopt renewable energy resources, he said the mission will encourage energy audit in all public buildings.Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K Rosaiah has assured full support for setting up solar power projects in the state. Stating that development of specific areas with high solar insulation for setting up of solar power projects has begun in the state, he urged the centre to take up 8 projects which are under various stages of development with a total 28 MW capacity, under the new Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission. The three – day conference will deliberate on a host of issues including solar energy technology, manufacturing, markets, applications and policy. An exhibition of solar energy products and services has been set up. Country’s first solar industry directory has also been released on the occasion.