MNRE Extends Deadline For Innovative Solar Project Proposals Under PM Surya Ghar Yojana

The National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), which works under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, has extended the deadline for submitting proposals under the Innovative Projects Component of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. Originally, the last date for submission was July 29, 2025. This has now been extended by 21 days, giving applicants until August 19, 2025, to send their proposals. The extension has been approved by the competent authority to allow more participation in this important initiative.

The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana was approved by the Government of India on February 29, 2024. It has a total budget of ₹75,021 crore and will run until the financial year 2026-27. The main goal of the scheme is to encourage solar rooftop installations in residential areas so that households can generate their own green electricity. The Innovative Projects Component is meant to support the demonstration of new solar technologies and ways of integrating them into daily life and infrastructure.

A wide range of participants can apply for this scheme. These include research and academic institutions, private and public sector companies, NGOs, registered societies and trusts, startups recognized by DPIIT, and even students. The projects must be completed within a maximum period of 18 months from the date of award.

Proposals are invited on many focus areas such as using blockchain for peer-to-peer solar sharing, digital solutions for rooftop solar, smart building materials, solar integration with electric vehicles, grid-connected systems with battery storage, and innovative business models like virtual net metering and rent-a-roof. Other important areas include integrating solar with smart grids, community solar models, and predictive maintenance. The call also supports ideas for microgrids, low-cost solar installation methods, solar planning for urban areas, disaster-resilient infrastructure, and AI-based energy management systems.

The government will offer financial support up to 60% of the project cost or ₹30 crore, whichever is lower. The funds will be released in stages, based on project milestones. Initially, up to 50% of the assistance will be given to help with equipment costs. Institutional overheads are capped at 8% of the total cost or ₹15 lakh, whichever is lower, and will be released only after project completion and review. NISE will manage the implementation of the scheme, track progress, and verify the use of funds. Proposals should be submitted through the NISE website.