Introduction: Solar energy stands as a beacon of hope in India’s quest for sustainable development and energy independence. On January 22, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a transformative initiative, the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, leveraging the power of solar energy to empower millions of households across the nation. This visionary scheme aims to install rooftop solar panels in 100 million homes, not only alleviating the burden of electricity expenses but also steering India towards a greener, more sustainable future. With the official launch of its website, www.pmsuryaghar.gov.in, the PM Surya Ghar Yojana heralds a new era of energy affordability and environmental stewardship.
Benefits of Solar Energy: Before delving into the intricacies of the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, it’s paramount to underscore the manifold benefits of solar energy:
- Clean, Renewable Resource: Solar power offers a sustainable alternative to conventional fossil fuels, mitigating carbon emissions and combating climate change.
- Energy Independence: By harnessing sunlight to generate electricity, solar energy reduces reliance on finite resources and fosters energy independence.
- Cost Savings: Solar installations require minimal maintenance and offer long-term cost savings, making them an economically viable solution for households and businesses alike.
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana: Apply Online, Eligibility, Installation Subsidies, Benefits
Overview: The Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, announced the launch of the ‘Rooftop Solar Scheme’ or the ‘PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana’ in the 2024-25 budget. This scheme provides subsidies for installing rooftop solar panels for residential houses and using solar energy for electricity, which will help save money on electricity bills.
PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana: The Finance Minister announced a new rooftop solar scheme in the Budget 2024-25. Subsequently, the Prime Minister launched the ‘PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana’. Solar panels are installed in houses under this scheme to supply power to households and additional money for excess electricity output. The Central Government will provide substantive subsidies directly to people’s bank accounts and heavily concessional bank loans to ensure that there is no cost burden on the people.
Objectives of Rooftop Solar Yojana/PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana:
- The scheme aims to provide 300 units of free electricity every month to light up one crore households.
- It seeks to reduce the electricity costs of households by installing rooftop solar panels and utilizing solar energy.
- The initiative aims to decrease dependency on traditional energy sources and promote clean and sustainable energy practices.
Benefits of Rooftop Solar Scheme/PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana:
- Savings of up to Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 18,000 crores annually from free solar electricity and selling the surplus power to distribution companies.
- Opportunities for entrepreneurship in supplying and installing solar panels.
- Employment opportunities for the youth with technical skills in solar panel installation, manufacturing, and maintenance.
Eligibility Criteria for Rooftop Solar Scheme:
- Applicants should be residents of India.
- Applicants should belong to poor and middle-income households.
- Applicants should own their residence.
Installation Subsidies: Under the Rooftop Solar Scheme, the government provides subsidies as follows:
- For up to 2 kW – Rs. 30,000 per kW.
- For additional capacity up to 3 kW – Rs. 18,000 per kW.
- Total subsidy for systems larger than 3 kW – Maximum Rs. 78,000.
Installation Process: Photovoltaic panels, also known as rooftop solar panels, are installed on the roofs of houses or buildings and connected to the central power supply unit. This installation decreases reliance on grid-connected electricity, leading to cost savings. The entire process is more financially sound via Net Metering, where any surplus energy or electricity generated by the solar panels is sold to electricity distribution companies for a reasonable amount, substantially reducing overall electricity bills.
How to Apply: Below are the steps to apply for PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana:
- Visit the official website of PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
- Click on the ‘Apply for Rooftop Solar’ button.
- Select the state, district, and electricity distribution company, enter your customer account number, and click on ‘Next’.
- Enter your mobile number and email, and follow the instructions to complete the registration.
- Log in with your customer account number and mobile number.
- Apply for the ‘Rooftop Solar’ as per the form.
- After applying, wait for feasibility approval from DISCOM. Once approved, install the plant through a registered vendor.
- Submit the plant details and apply for a net meter after installation.
- After the net meter installation and DISCOM inspection, they will generate a commissioning certificate.
- Submit your bank account details, and you will receive the subsidy within 30 days.
Conclusion: As India marches towards a future powered by clean, renewable energy, the PM Surya Ghar Yojana emerges as a beacon of progress and possibility. By harnessing the abundant sunlight that bathes the nation, this initiative not only illuminates homes but also illuminates the path towards a greener, more prosperous tomorrow. Through concerted efforts and collective action, India can leverage the power of solar energy to uplift communities, safeguard the environment, and pave the way for a brighter future for generations to come. With the PM Surya Ghar Yojana leading the charge, India stands poised to embrace a sustainable energy revolution, one rooftop at a time.
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