The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is a transformative initiative launched by the Government of India to promote rooftop solar energy adoption among residential households. Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 15, 2024, the scheme aims to empower one crore households by providing them with up to 300 units of free electricity monthly through subsidized rooftop solar installations.
🔑 Key Features of the Scheme
- Subsidy Structure:
- For systems up to 2 kW: ₹30,000 per kW (i.e., ₹60,000 for 2 kW).
- For additional capacity between 2 kW and 3 kW: ₹18,000 per kW.
- Maximum total subsidy: ₹78,000 for systems of 3 kW or more.
- Free Electricity: Beneficiaries receive up to 300 units of free electricity per month, significantly reducing their electricity bills.
- Financial Assistance: The scheme offers collateral-free loans up to ₹2 lakh at a subsidized interest rate of 6.75% through 12 Public Sector Banks, facilitating easier adoption for households.
🏡 Eligibility Criteria
To avail benefits under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, applicants must:
- Be Indian citizens.
- Own a residential property with a suitable rooftop for solar panel installation.
- Have a valid electricity connection.
- Not have previously availed any other government subsidy for solar panels.
📝 Application Process
Interested households can apply through the official portal:
- Registration: Visit pmsuryaghar.gov.in and register by selecting your state and electricity distribution company.
- Vendor Selection: Choose an empaneled vendor for installation.
- Installation: The selected vendor installs the rooftop solar system.
- Inspection & Approval: Post-installation, the system is inspected and approved.
- Subsidy Disbursement: The subsidy amount is directly transferred to the beneficiary’s bank account within 15 days of approval.
📊 Impact and Progress
As of March 10, 2025, the scheme has achieved significant milestones:
- Over 10 lakh homes have been solar-powered.
- 47.3 lakh applications received.
- ₹4,770 crore disbursed in subsidies to 6.13 lakh beneficiaries.
- 1.28 lakh loans disbursed to facilitate installations.
🌍 Broader Implications
The PM Surya Ghar Yojana not only reduces electricity expenses for households but also contributes to environmental sustainability by promoting renewable energy. It aligns with India’s commitment to increasing its renewable energy capacity and reducing carbon emissions. Moreover, by facilitating decentralized energy production, the scheme enhances energy security and resilience.
📌 Conclusion
The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana stands as a testament to India’s dedication to sustainable development and clean energy adoption. By providing financial incentives and simplifying the adoption process, the scheme empowers households to become self-reliant in their energy needs, leading to economic savings and environmental benefits. As the scheme progresses, it is poised to play a pivotal role in India’s journey towards a greener and more sustainable future.