The Solar Rooftop Subsidy Yojana, also known as PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, is a transformative initiative by the Government of India aimed at promoting solar energy adoption in residential areas. Launched on February 15, 2024, this scheme seeks to install rooftop solar panels in one crore households by 2027.
With a budget outlay of ₹75,021 crore, the program aims to reduce electricity costs for poor and middle-class families while accelerating India’s transition to renewable energy. As of October 2024, over 1.28 crore registrations have been received, with 14 lakh applications processed and 4 lakh rooftop solar connections already installed. This initiative contributes significantly to India’s renewable energy capacity and aims to generate 1,000 billion units of electricity over 25 years.
PM Solar Rooftop Subsidy Yojana
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Solar Rooftop Subsidy Yojana (PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana) |
| Launch Date | February 15, 2024 |
| Target | 1 crore households by 2027 |
| Budget Outlay | ₹75,021 crore |
| Subsidy Amount | ₹30,000 to ₹78,000 per household |
| Electricity Benefit | Up to 300 units of free electricity per month |
| Implementation Period | Till FY 2026-27 |
| Implementing Agencies | National Programme Implementation Agency (NPIA) & State Implementation Agencies (SIAs) |
| Official Website | pmsuryaghar.gov.in |
Objectives of the Scheme
- Increase Solar Capacity – Add 30 GW of solar capacity in the residential sector.
- Reduce Carbon Emissions – Cut 720 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions over the lifetime of the installed systems.
- Economic Empowerment – Enable families to save on electricity bills and earn extra income by selling surplus power.
- Job Creation – Generate 17 lakh direct jobs in manufacturing, logistics, installation, and operations.
- Energy Independence – Promote self-reliance in power generation and reduce grid dependency.
- Public Awareness – Educate citizens on solar energy adoption and its benefits.
Eligibility Criteria
To avail of the subsidy under this scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be an Indian citizen.
- Must own a house with a suitable rooftop for solar panel installation.
- Should have a valid electricity connection.
- Should not have received any previous solar subsidy.
Subsidy Structure
The scheme offers subsidies based on the solar system’s capacity:
- Up to 2 kW – 60% subsidy on the solar unit cost.
- 2 kW to 3 kW – Additional 40% subsidy on the system cost.
- Above 3 kW – Maximum subsidy capped at ₹78,000.
Subsidy Breakdown Based on System Size
- 1 kW system – ₹30,000
- 2 kW system – ₹60,000
- 3 kW system or higher – ₹78,000
Application Process
To apply for the subsidy, follow these steps:
- Registration – Visit the official website pmsuryaghar.gov.in and register by selecting your state and electricity distribution company.
- Information Review – Check details about system size, cost, and benefits.
- Vendor Selection – Choose a registered vendor and solar panel make.
- Application Submission – Submit the application through the portal.
- Feasibility Approval – The DISCOM (Distribution Company) will approve feasibility.
- Installation – Install the solar plant through the registered vendor.
- Net Metering Application – Apply for a net meter after installation.
- Commissioning & Inspection – DISCOM will inspect and generate a commissioning certificate.
- Subsidy Disbursement – After installation, submit bank details to receive the subsidy within 30 days.
Required Documents
Applicants need to provide the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card
- Address Proof
- Identification Card
- Family Ration Card
- Income Certificate
- Bank Passbook
- Mobile Number
- Passport Size Photo
- Latest Electricity Bill
Benefits of the Scheme
- Cost Savings – Households can save ₹15,000 to ₹18,000 per year on electricity bills.
- Income Generation – Surplus electricity can be sold back to the grid.
- Energy Independence – Reduces reliance on conventional power sources.
- Environmental Benefits – Significant reduction in carbon emissions.
- Job Creation – Boosts employment in the solar sector.
- Technological Growth – Promotes clean energy adoption.
- Grid Stability – Reduces strain on the national power grid during peak hours.
Challenges & Solutions
1. Lack of Awareness
- Challenge: Many households are unaware of solar energy benefits.
- Solution: Government should launch awareness campaigns.
2. High Initial Cost
- Challenge: Upfront installation costs can be expensive.
- Solution: Offer EMI options & financial assistance.
3. Shortage of Skilled Technicians
- Challenge: Lack of trained personnel for installation & maintenance.
- Solution: Provide solar technician training programs.
4. Grid Integration Issues
- Challenge: Ensuring a smooth connection with the existing power grid.
- Solution: Upgrade grid infrastructure and implement smart grids.
Impact & Future Outlook
- Solar Capacity Addition – 30 GW target by 2027.
- Electricity Generation – Over 1,000 billion units in 25 years.
- Job Creation – 17 lakh new jobs in the solar sector.
- Environmental Impact – Reduction of 720 million tons of CO₂ emissions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana?
Any Indian citizen who owns a house with a suitable rooftop and has a valid electricity connection can apply.
2. How much subsidy is provided under the scheme?
The subsidy varies based on system size:
- 1 kW – ₹30,000
- 2 kW – ₹60,000
- 3 kW or higher – ₹78,000 (Maximum limit)
3. How long does it take to receive the subsidy amount?
After successful installation and approval, the subsidy is credited within 30 days.
4. Can I apply for this subsidy if I have already received another solar subsidy?
No, applicants must not have availed of any other solar panel subsidy before.
5. How much electricity can I get for free?
Eligible households can receive up to 300 units of free electricity per month.
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