PM Surya Ghar Scheme: Rooftop Solar Progress Report

Why in the news?

The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana has seen 25+ lakh applications for rooftop solar installations. However, only 24% have been converted to actual installations due to a complex process involving multiple steps and approvals.

PM Surya Ghar Scheme: Rooftop Solar Progress Report

Current Progress and Challenges:

  • According to data submitted by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), only 8% of applications (6.16 lakh households) have led to actual installations.
  • Gujarat leads in the percentage of applications resulting in installations.
  • The multi-step process, including site visits, vendor selection, installation, and net metering approvals, contributes to the low conversion rate of applications into installations.

Insights from Experts:

  • Independent analysts, such as Bhawna Tyagi from the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW), attribute delays to the complex procedural requirements involved in rooftop solar implementation.
  • Simplifying the process could help increase adoption rates and achieve the scheme’s ambitious target.
  • The MNRE has also shared state-wise data on registrations, applications, and installations in response to a parliamentary question.

What is PM Surya Ghar-Muft Bijli Yojana?

  • Central scheme to promote rooftop solar adoption with financial subsidies and simplified installation processes.
  • Objective: Provide 300 free electricity units/month to 1 crore households installing rooftop solar units.
  • Implementation Agencies:
  • National Level: Managed by National Programme Implementation Agency (NPIA).
  • State Level: Executed by DISCOMs or state Power Departments.
  • Subsidy Structure:
  • 60% subsidy for systems up to 2kW.
  • 40% subsidy for 2kW–3kW systems.
  • Additional Features:
  • Model Solar Villages in districts for demonstrations.
  • Incentives for Urban Local Bodies and Panchayati Raj Institutions to promote adoption.

Other Solar Energy Initiatives:

  • One Sun, One World, One Grid.
  • SAUBHAGYA (Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana).
  • National Smart Grid Mission and Smart Meter National Programme.
  • International Solar Alliance (ISA).
  • National Solar Mission, Solar Park Scheme.
  • PM-KUSUM (Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan).

This initiative highlights the challenges and potential of scaling rooftop solar solutions to promote renewable energy and reduce reliance on traditional power sources.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times