PM Surya Ghar Yojana: Eligibility Rules, Online Application & Free Power Benefits
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In a major move towards affordable clean energy, the Indian government has launched a rooftop solar initiative aimed at reducing power bills and promoting sustainable living. Households can now generate their own electricity using solar panels installed on their rooftops, with subsidies offered to make the process accessible and economical. With over 95 lakh households already registered, the scheme is fast becoming a game-changer in the country’s push for renewable energy and energy independence.
The idea is simple yet powerful—let the sun power your home while you save significantly on electricity bills. Under this programme, eligible households can receive free electricity of up to 300 units every month and are also entitled to sell surplus power to local distribution companies, earning extra income.
The scheme supports both individual homes and group housing societies, ensuring widespread access. The process is entirely online, making it convenient for applicants from all parts of the country.
Residents of group housing societies and RWAs are also eligible for ₹18,000 per kW for shared facilities, including electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
EV Charging: Solar systems support sustainable transport through at-home EV charging.
Energy Independence: Households become producers, not just consumers, of electricity.
The net impact could see India saving ₹15,000 to ₹18,000 crore each year through reduced subsidies and improved energy efficiency.
Enter basic details such as your mobile number and location.
Submit your application and wait for feasibility approval from the electricity distribution company (DISCOM).
Choose a registered vendor once approved.
Installation begins after inspection and is completed with technical verification.
Upon final DISCOM approval, you receive a certification and the subsidy is credited within 30 days.
The panels are connected to the central power supply, allowing for two-way flow of electricity. Any excess power generated is sold back to the grid through a process known as Net Metering.
Rooftop ownership certificate or related property proof
These help ensure that the household is eligible and that the solar panel system can be securely and legally installed.
With one crore households targeted for solar adoption, this initiative could play a crucial role in shaping India’s clean energy future.
Making Solar Power Affordable for Homes
The Rooftop Solar Scheme , officially titled the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, is designed to help Indian households tap into solar energy and reduce dependency on grid electricity. Announced in February 2024, the scheme provides financial assistance to citizens belonging to poor and middle-income groups for installing solar panels on their residential rooftops.The idea is simple yet powerful—let the sun power your home while you save significantly on electricity bills. Under this programme, eligible households can receive free electricity of up to 300 units every month and are also entitled to sell surplus power to local distribution companies, earning extra income.
Who Can Apply and What Are the Conditions?
To be eligible, applicants must be Indian citizens belonging to economically weaker or middle-income categories. They must also own the home where solar panels are to be installed, with a suitable rooftop for the equipment. A valid electricity connection is mandatory, and the applicant should not have availed of any prior subsidy for solar panel installation.The scheme supports both individual homes and group housing societies, ensuring widespread access. The process is entirely online, making it convenient for applicants from all parts of the country.
Subsidy Structure Based on Power Needs
Subsidies under the scheme are generous and directly transferred to beneficiaries’ bank accounts. The amount varies based on the size of the solar system installed:- Up to 2 kW: ₹30,000 per kilowatt
- Additional 1 kW (up to 3 kW): ₹18,000 per kilowatt
- Maximum subsidy: ₹78,000 for systems above 3 kW
Residents of group housing societies and RWAs are also eligible for ₹18,000 per kW for shared facilities, including electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Benefits Beyond Free Electricity
The advantages of the scheme go beyond just saving on electricity bills. Here’s what households and the nation stand to gain:- Monthly Savings: Families can save thousands annually on electricity costs.
- Cleaner Energy: Reduced reliance on coal-powered electricity helps cut emissions.
- Job Creation: Growth in solar panel manufacturing, installation, and servicing.
Installation Process: From Application to Connection
Setting up a rooftop solar system through this scheme is streamlined and involves minimal paperwork. Here’s a summary of the steps:- Visit the official scheme portal and register.
The panels are connected to the central power supply, allowing for two-way flow of electricity. Any excess power generated is sold back to the grid through a process known as Net Metering.
Documents Needed for Enrolment
Applicants should have the following documents ready when applying:- Proof of identity (such as Aadhaar or voter ID)
- Proof of address
- A recent electricity bill
National Energy Goals and Environmental Impact
The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana aligns with India’s broader environmental and economic goals. By reducing the use of fossil fuels, the scheme contributes to the country’s climate commitments and reduces pressure on traditional power infrastructure. It also promotes decentralised energy production, empowering citizens to become active participants in the energy transition.With one crore households targeted for solar adoption, this initiative could play a crucial role in shaping India’s clean energy future.
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