How is the PM Surya Ghar Scheme Enabling Zero Electricity Bills for 7.7 Lakh Households?
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New Delhi, Dec 16 (NationPress) The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is making significant strides in revolutionizing India's home energy sector. Over 7.7 lakh households are now enjoying zero electricity bills thanks to the installation of rooftop solar systems, as reported by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy on Tuesday.
Initiated in February 2024, this scheme aims to make clean energy accessible and reduce the financial strain of electricity on families nationwide.
In a recent statement to the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy Shripad Yesso Naik highlighted that by December 9, a total of 19,45,758 rooftop solar systems have been set up across the country.
“These installations have benefitted 24,35,196 households under this flagship initiative,” the ministry added.
The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana aims to equip one crore households in the residential sector with rooftop solar installations by FY 2026–27, with a budget allocation of Rs 75,021 crore.
This initiative promotes energy self-sufficiency, decreases electricity costs, and facilitates India's transition to clean energy.
According to ministry data, Gujarat leads the way under this scheme, boasting over 4.93 lakh rooftop solar installations that are benefiting more than 7.10 lakh households.
Remarkably, over 3.62 lakh consumers in the state are now enjoying zero electricity bills.
Andhra Pradesh, Assam, and Haryana are demonstrating notable progress as well, with thousands of households reaping the benefits of rooftop solar systems.
To ensure that rooftop solar remains financially feasible, the government is offering Central Financial Assistance and collateral-free loans at a concessional interest rate of 5.75%.
This financial support aims to lower the initial installation costs and encourage broader involvement.
The government is also implementing measures to boost adoption among rural households and economically disadvantaged groups.
Guidelines have been established for the installation of rooftop solar systems under the Utility Led Aggregation and RESCO models, which mitigate financial and operational obstacles for beneficiaries.