India Expands Solar Initiative for Tribal Communities: New Guidelines for Broader Electrification and Flexibility in Implementation

The Indian government has recently revised the guidelines for its ambitious solar power initiative aimed at providing clean and reliable electricity to the country’s Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) communities. This initiative, part of the Prime Minister’s Jan Shakti Nidhi (PM JANMAN), originally approved in January to facilitate the electrification of PVTG habitations through solar mini-grids and individual solar home lighting systems (SHLS).

In a significant update to enhance the reach and effectiveness of the program, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has expanded the project’s scope beyond individual household lighting. The updated guidelines now support the installation of solar mini-grids for cluster electrification, providing a comprehensive power solution for entire communities. These mini-grids, complete with battery banks, distribution lines, and metering equipment, will receive up to ₹50,000 per household in financial backing from the MNRE.

Furthermore, the amendments introduce flexibility in the project implementation process. While previously restricted to the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) model, the revised guidelines now permit both Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) and RESCO modes for setting up mini-grids. This change offers implementing agencies the liberty to choose the most appropriate model based on local dynamics and availability of resources. Additionally, agencies opting for the CAPEX mode may seek extra funding from state governments, ensuring broader access to subsidized solar power solutions and marking a significant step towards sustainable energy access for India’s most underserved communities.