The PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, launched by the Government of India, stands as a significant initiative aimed at revolutionizing residential electricity consumption through solar power. With an ambitious budget of ₹75,021 crore and a mandate until FY 2026-27, this scheme aims to empower households across the country by facilitating the installation of rooftop solar systems.
Approved on February 29, 2024, this initiative is designed to foster sustainable energy practices by encouraging the adoption of rooftop solar systems among residential consumers. The scheme targets installing 1 crore rooftop solar systems, which will not only enable households to generate their own electricity but also provide free or low-cost electricity to 1 crore households consuming up to 300 units per month.
One of the key objectives of PM-Surya Ghar is to generate 1,000 billion units of renewable electricity over its operational lifetime, thereby significantly reducing CO2 emissions by 720 million tons. This aligns with India’s commitment to combat climate change under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) at the UNFCCC.
Under the scheme, residential consumers are eligible for Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to cover a portion of the installation costs. The CFA covers up to 60% of the benchmark cost for the initial 2 kW of capacity and 40% for an additional 1 kW, with special provisions for states categorized as special categories. Consumers also have the option to “Give It Up,” forgoing CFA to extend the scheme’s benefits to more households.
The implementation process is streamlined through the PM Surya Ghar National Portal, where consumers can apply, choose registered vendors, and manage financing options. Vendors facilitate installation, educate consumers on maintenance, and ensure compliance with technical specifications. Upon installation, DISCOMs inspect the systems and approve CFA releases electronically through integrated portals.
The scheme not only aims to enhance energy security and reduce dependence on conventional energy sources but also to stimulate the local economy through job creation and the development of a robust solar infrastructure ecosystem. It integrates seamlessly with existing programs like the Grid Connected Rooftop Solar Phase II Programme, consolidating efforts to achieve a cumulative solar capacity target of 30 GW by 2026-27.
With loan options available for financing and features for tracking performance and generation data, the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana represents a comprehensive effort to democratize access to solar energy and promote sustainable development nationwide. By leveraging technology and financial incentives, the government seeks to catalyze a widespread transition towards cleaner, renewable energy sources, reinforcing India’s position as a global leader in solar energy adoption.
The PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana stands as a beacon of India’s commitment to sustainable development and climate action, empowering millions of households to contribute actively to the nation’s renewable energy goals while benefiting from cost-effective and eco-friendly electricity solutions.
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