Current context:
Recently Prime Minister, today announced the launch of rooftop solar scheme for free electricity – PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
About current context:
The finance minister of India, originally introduced the initiative during the 2024-25 interim budget.
About the scheme:
- The Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, with an investment of over Rs. 75,000 crores, aims to provide up to 300 units of free electricity monthly to 1 crore households.
- The scheme aims to encourage the use of solar energy among residential households, promoting sustainability and reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.
- A rooftop solar PV system converts DC power from a solar panel into AC power using a power conditioning unit, then feeds it to the grid.
- The National Online Portal will be integrated with all stakeholders.
- Urban Local Bodies and Panchayats will be rewarded for promoting rooftop solar systems in their jurisdictions to popularize this scheme at the grassroots level.
- The scheme is expected to generate more income, lower power bills, and create employment opportunities for individuals.
- The scheme will directly provide subsidies to individuals’ bank accounts.
- The government has appointed eight central public sector undertakings (CPSUs) to implement the scheme across all states and union territories of the country.
- The Central Public Service Units (CPSUs) will be responsible for installing rooftop solar in one crore households.
- These include NTPC, NHPC, EESL, PowerGrid, Grid-India, THDC, SJVN, and NEEPCO.
- Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are installed on rooftops of buildings, homes, or residential properties.