PM Surya Ghar Yojana cuts power bills to zero for Sheikhpura families
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is delivering measurable relief to households in Sheikhpura, Bihar, with beneficiaries reporting sharp drops in monthly electricity bills — and in several cases, bills falling to zero. The Central Government scheme provides subsidies of up to ₹78,000 for rooftop solar panel installation and entitles eligible households to up to 300 units of free electricity every month.
Beneficiaries Speak Out
Resident Kanchan Kumari, one of the scheme's beneficiaries, said her family once rationed fan usage during study hours out of fear of high electricity bills. 'After installing the solar panel, we no longer have to worry about electricity consumption,' she said. She added that her household now uses fans and lights freely, with her monthly electricity bill reduced to zero.
Ashish Kumar and Usha Devi, two other residents of Sheikhpura, also shared how they are now entirely dependent on power generated from their rooftop solar panels, effectively eliminating recurring electricity expenses. Both expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the scheme.
District Administration Extends Support
District Magistrate Shekhar Anand confirmed that the district administration is actively assisting residents interested in rooftop solar installation. According to him, support is being provided at every stage — from planning and loan-related assistance to coordination with the local electricity department. He urged residents of Sheikhpura to take maximum advantage of the scheme.
What the Scheme Offers
Under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, the Centre offers subsidies of up to ₹78,000 to eligible households for installing rooftop solar panels. Beneficiaries can avail up to 300 units of free electricity per month, significantly reducing dependence on conventional grid power. The scheme is designed to ease the financial burden of rising electricity costs on low- and middle-income households.
Wider Impact on Household Appliance Use
For many beneficiaries, the scheme has unlocked a practical freedom that goes beyond bill savings. Families are now using essential appliances — fans, coolers, and air conditioners — without the constant anxiety of a steep monthly power bill. This is particularly significant in Sheikhpura, where summer temperatures make cooling appliances a necessity rather than a luxury.
With district-level support structures in place and growing word-of-mouth from satisfied beneficiaries, the scheme's reach in the region is expected to expand further in the coming months.