Solar Rooftop Subsidy Scheme – A 360° View
Pradhan Mantri Suryoday Yojana was announced by PM Modi to extend solar energy access to households nationwide. On February 13th, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the renaming of the government’s updated rooftop solar scheme to ‘PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana‘.
Aimed at providing up to 300 units of free electricity every month to 1 crore households, this initiative with an investment of over ₹75,000 crores, aims to promote the widespread adoption of solar power. Through subsidies provided for eligible solar projects, more individuals will have the opportunity to install solar rooftop systems on their own homes, subsequently decreasing their electricity expenses.
Solar Rooftop Subsidy Benefits to Homeowners
A solar subsidy is a financial incentive the government provides to individuals or organisations to encourage the adoption of solar energy by making it more affordable and accessible to a wider range of people, businesses, and communities. By offsetting some of the initial investment required for installing solar panels, subsidies help more people to switch from traditional coal-based to renewable energy.
Central Financial Assistance (CFA) Under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojna
Under the ‘PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana’, the government is offering substantial subsidies to incentivize the adoption of solar energy. For systems up to 2 kW, a generous subsidy of Rs. 30,000 per kilowatt (kW) is provided, while additional capacity up to 3 kW is eligible for a subsidy of Rs. 18,000 per kW.
Even for larger systems exceeding 3 kW, the total subsidy is capped at a considerable Rs. 78,000. These increased subsidy rates make it more accessible for homeowners to invest in renewable energy solutions, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future.
The following table illustrates the subsidy amounts for various KW solar installations:
| Average Monthly Electricity Consumption (units) | Suitable Rooftop Solar Plant Capacity | Subsidy Support |
| 0-150 | 1 – 2 kW | Rs 30,000 to Rs 60,000/ |
| 150-300 | 2 – 3 kW | Rs 60,000 to Rs 78,000/ |
| >300 | Above 3 kW | Rs 78,000/- |
Where To Apply for Solar Rooftop Subsidy?
Anyone living in any part of India can use the National Portal ( https://pmsuryaghar.gov.in ) to apply for a Rooftop Solar System installation under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojna and receive financial support directly in their bank account. The portal also gives information about subsidy programs, rewards, and other advantages available under this scheme. This makes it more convenient for households to apply for and get the subsidy they are eligible for.
Eligibility Criteria For Availing Solar Subsidy
To qualify for participation in the PM – Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana in 2024, individuals must satisfy the following conditions:
- Hold permanent citizenship of India.
- Attain the age of 18 or above.
- Own a residential property.
- A valid electricity connection is mandatory for the household.
- Householders must possess the required documentation.
- Aadhaar linked to bank accounts is highly mandatory.
- The household must not have previously received any other subsidies for solar panels.
Documents Required to Apply For Solar Subsidy On National Portal
The essential documentation needed for eligible residents of the country to complete the online registration for the Solar Rooftop Scheme includes:
- Aadhar card
- Proof of address
- Identification card
- Household ration card (if applicable)
- Income certificate
- Bank passbook
- Mobile number
- Passport-sized photograph
- Utility bill for energy consumption
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