India’s Rooftop Solar Programme Phase II Achieves 2.1 GW Capacity Milestone

In the latest update from the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), it has been revealed that Phase II of the Rooftop Solar Programme has successfully added an impressive capacity of 2.1 GW. The Union Minister for New & Renewable Energy and Power shared this information, highlighting the ongoing efforts to promote clean energy adoption across the country.

Under Phase II of the programme, Central Financial Assistance (CFA) is being extended to support the installation of Grid Connected Rooftop Solar systems in the residential sector. The subsidy structure has been meticulously designed to encourage solar adoption among individual residential consumers.

For states falling under the General category, the subsidy pattern is as follows:

1. Up to 3 kW capacity: Rs. 14,588/- per kW
2. Above 3 kW and up to 10 kW: Rs. 14,588/- per kW for the initial 3 kW, and Rs. 7,294/- per kW thereafter
3. Above 10 kW capacity: Fixed subsidy of Rs. 94,822/-

In specific regions like the North Eastern States, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, UT of Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, the subsidy structure is slightly modified:

1. Up to 3 kW capacity: Rs. 17,662/- per kW
2. Above 3 kW and up to 10 kW: Rs. 17,662/- per kW for the first 3 kW, and Rs. 8,831/- per kW thereafter
3. Above 10 kW capacity: Fixed subsidy of Rs. 1,14,803/-

Launched in March 2019 with a total financial allocation of Rs. 11,814 crores, the scheme not only supports residential solar installations but also offers incentives to DISCOMs for exceeding their operational area’s installed base capacity. The ongoing Phase II operates on a demand-driven basis, with capacity allocation to implementing agencies (IAs)/DISCOMs based on their proposals. Out of the allocated 3.37 GW capacity, a significant 2.207 GW has been successfully installed in the residential sector as of July 31, 2023.

These achievements signify a significant stride towards cleaner and sustainable energy for India.