PM Surya Ghar Scheme – Muft Bijli Yojana

By Navya Pandey

Introduction

For the PM Surya Ghar Scheme – Muft Bijli Yojana, the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has released operating guidelines that include information on Utility-Led Aggregation (ULA) and RESCO (Renewable Energy Service Company) models. The current consumer-driven rooftop solar installation implementation will be enhanced by these rules via the program’s National Portal.

What is the Background of the PM Surya Ghar Scheme?

The PM Surya Ghar Scheme was started as a component of the government’s larger effort to use renewable energy. The goal is straightforward yet profound: to tackle environmental issues, lessen reliance on conventional energy sources, and solve energy poverty. This plan aims to fill the gap created by India’s increasing energy demands, which necessitate creative solutions.

What is the Objective of PM Surya Ghar Scheme?

The Indian government’s PM Surya Ghar Scheme encourages homes to employ solar energy systems in an effort to increase the use of renewable energy.

  • Promoting Solar Energy Adoption: Encouraging the installation of solar panels on rooftops in order to lessen reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
  • Lowering Energy Bills: Assisting homes in producing their own renewable energy to reduce their electricity expenses.
  • Environmental Benefits: Lowering carbon emissions in accordance with international climate agreements and supporting India’s renewable energy ambitions.
  • Energy Security: Lowering the strain on conventional power systems, especially during periods of high demand, in order to increase energy security and dependability generally.
  • Empowering Households: Providing financial assistance and subsidies to enable a larger population to purchase and have access to solar systems.

The program supports the shift to sustainable energy sources and is a component of India’s larger efforts to meet its renewable energy targets under the National Solar Mission.

What are the Highlights of the Guidelines for the PM Surya Ghar Scheme? 

  • Two Models for Solar Installation
    • RESCO (Renewable Energy Service Company) Model: The RESCO (Renewable Energy Service Company) model involves outside parties funding rooftop solar projects. Customers don’t have to pay for power up ahead; they simply pay for what they use. DISCOMs can purchase excess electricity.
    • Utility Led Aggregation (ULA) Model: Residential rooftop solar systems are installed by state-designated bodies or power distribution corporations (DISCOMs).
  • Payment Security Mechanism (PSM): To reduce the risk associated with investments in rooftop solar models based on RESCO, a Rs 100 crore PSM fund has been formed. With Ministry clearance, it can be improved with more grants.

What are the Facts About PM Surya Ghar Scheme – Muft Bijli Yojana? 

  • The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) announced the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana in February 2024 with the goal of installing rooftop solar panels to give one crore families with free power.
  • The program, which has a Rs 75,021 crore overall budget, is scheduled to run until FY 2026–2027.
  • It encourages widespread adoption of solar energy throughout the nation by providing up to 300 units of free power per month and a subsidy that covers up to 40% of the installation cost.
PM Surya Ghar Scheme

What are the Key Features of PM Surya Ghar Scheme?

The goal of the PM Surya Ghar Scheme is to encourage rooftop solar systems in Indian homes.

  • Financial Subsidies
    • Offers financial assistance to residential customers in order to lower the initial cost of installing solar rooftop systems.
    • The size of the system may affect the subsidy rate; smaller installations usually receive higher rates in order to promote wider adoption.
  • Ease of Application
    • An easier way to apply online using official government websites.
    • Help is offered with installation methods, documentation, and approvals.
  • Capacity Flexibility
    • Depending on their energy requirements, households can install solar systems with different capacities, usually between 1 kW and 10 kW.
  • Net Metering System
    • Promotes the use of net metering, which enables homes to balance their power costs by selling excess electricity back to the grid.
  • Integration with National Solar Mission
    • Corresponds with India’s National Solar Mission’s larger renewable energy targets of achieving 280 GW of solar power by 2030.

How to Avail the PM Surya Ghar Scheme?

To avail of the PM Surya Ghar Scheme, follow these steps:

  • Check Eligibility
    • Residential households (individual residences and housing societies) are eligible for the program.
    • Make sure you have an open area or rooftop that is ideal for installing solar panels.
  • Visit the Official Portal
    • Visit the state-specific solar energy site or the National site for Rooftop Solar.
    • Usually, the official webpage makes it simple to submit an application and monitor its progress.
  • Submit Application
    • Register online: Provide your name, residence, power connection number, and rooftop area on the application form.
    • Upload documents: Present the necessary paperwork, such as identification (Voter ID, PAN, or Aadhar). A copy of the electricity bill and evidence of property ownership.
  • Choose an Empaneled Vendor
    • Choose from the portal’s list of authorized government vendors.
    • These suppliers guarantee that high-quality, certified solar panels and inverters are installed.
  • Site Inspection
    • To confirm viability, a site inspection will be carried out by the vendor or the neighborhood discom (electricity distribution company).
  • Installation of Solar Panels
    • The rooftop solar system will be installed by the vendor upon approval.
    • Installing panels, inverters, and a net metering system for grid connection are all part of the installation.
  • Apply for Subsidy
    • After installation is finished, use the site to submit the required documentation, such as the installation certificate.
    • The subsidy will either be deducted from the installation fee or credited straight to your bank account.
  • Subsidy Rates
    • Up to 3 kW: Subsidy up to 40% of the benchmark cost.
    • 4 kW to 10 kW: Subsidy up to 20%.

Conclusion

The PM Surya Ghar Scheme – Muft Bijli Yojana empowers households to adopt rooftop solar systems, ensuring affordable and sustainable energy solutions. By offering subsidies, financial assistance, and simplified processes, the scheme promotes renewable energy, reduces electricity bills, and supports environmental goals. It plays a pivotal role in achieving India’s energy security and National Solar Mission targets.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

  • Who can apply for PM Surya Ghar Scheme- Muft Bijli Yojana?

    This program gives priority to farmers, rural households, and economically disadvantaged groups.

  • What documents are needed for the application?

    Candidates must provide proof of identification, proof of residency, and proof of income.

  • How does solar power benefit the environment?

    Solar energy encourages sustainable energy usage, decreases greenhouse gas emissions, and lessens reliance on fossil fuels.

  • What is the government’s long-term vision with this initiative?

    The plan intends to meet local energy demands while positioning India as a worldwide leader in renewable energy.

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