Is Haryana Ready to Install 2.2 Lakh Rooftop Solar Systems by 2026-27?

Chandigarh, Aug 7 (NationPress) In a significant stride towards clean and sustainable energy, Haryana has set an ambitious goal of installing 2.2 lakh rooftop solar systems under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSG: MBY) by 2026-27.

Emphasizing its leadership in green energy initiatives, the state plans to solarize all government buildings by December 31, without relying on any central financial assistance.

Surveys have already revealed solar potential in 4,523 government buildings, amounting to a cumulative capacity of 122 MW.

The detailed roadmap was disclosed at a state-level coordination committee meeting led by Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, where senior officials discussed the scheme's progress and strategies for an expedited rollout.

"Haryana is not only promoting solar energy, but we are also making sure it reaches every household, particularly in rural areas," stated an official communication quoting the Chief Secretary.

To facilitate the transition to solar energy, the government is providing dual subsidies: Central financial assistance, which is transferred directly to consumers' bank accounts within 15 days after installation approval, and state financial assistance for 1 lakh Antyodaya families, available on a first-come, first-served basis. These subsidies significantly lower the installation costs for economically disadvantaged groups.

As of now, 30,631 rooftop solar installations have been completed in the state, and local DISCOMs are implementing special booster initiatives to accelerate these installations.

The combined incentives aim to offer substantial financial support, encouraging widespread adoption among middle-class and service sector families.

To promote community-wide transformation, Haryana has also introduced the Model Solar Village (MSV) initiative, which aims to develop one village in each district as a self-sufficient solar-powered hub.

Villages with populations exceeding 5,000 are eligible for Central financial assistance of up to Rs 1 crore.

Balu village in Kaithal has already achieved the status of the first Model Solar Village, with selections currently taking place in Karnal and Kurukshetra districts. These villages are being outfitted with solar-powered streetlights, home lighting systems, water supply systems, and pumps, thereby establishing a continuous green energy ecosystem.

To ensure smooth execution, Haryana's DISCOMs have developed an integrated online portal and set up over 280 helpdesks across subdivisions.

Capacity building has been prioritized, with 703 DISCOM officials and vendors trained through programs facilitated by the National Power Training Institute (NPTI) and the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD).