Image source - Opindia |
The Union Cabinet has given the green light to the 'PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana', a groundbreaking initiative aimed at brightening up the homes of a crore households across the nation with rooftop solar panels. This scheme, with an impressive budget of Rs 75,021 crore, promises not just solar power but also free electricity of up to 300 units each month for these households. Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself launched this visionary project on February 13 this year.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur, addressing a press conference after the Cabinet meeting, emphasized that this initiative is not just about power but about energizing the entire solar manufacturing and supply chain, potentially providing direct employment to 17 lakh individuals. He highlighted the anticipated creation of jobs in various sectors like manufacturing, logistics, sales, installation, and more.
Under this scheme, households will receive substantial financial assistance, with the government covering 60% of the system cost for 2 kW systems and 40% for systems between 2 to 3 kW capacity, capped at 3 kW. This translates to significant subsidies, making solar power installations more accessible and affordable. Additionally, households can avail themselves of collateral-free, low-interest loans at around 7% interest for installations up to 3 kW.
A key feature of the scheme is the National Portal, which will serve as a one-stop platform for households to apply for subsidies, access information about suitable vendors, and make informed decisions about rooftop solar installations. Furthermore, the scheme includes the development of model solar villages in each district to inspire rural areas to embrace rooftop solar.
Urban local bodies and Panchayati Raj Institutions will also benefit from incentives for promoting rooftop solar installations in their respective areas. Moreover, the scheme incorporates provisions for payment security for renewable energy service companies and encourages innovative projects in residential rooftop solar.
By embracing this initiative, households not only stand to save on electricity bills but also have the potential to earn income by selling surplus power to DISCOMs. The estimated impact of the scheme includes the addition of 30 GW of solar capacity through rooftop installations, generating 1000 BUs of electricity, and reducing CO2 emissions by 720 million tonnes over 25 years.
For households interested in participating, the process is straightforward. They can register for the scheme on the National Portal, undergo a feasibility study conducted by the DISCOM, install the system through a registered vendor, and apply for a net meter. Subsidies will be disbursed within 30 days of submission of bank account details through the portal.
This scheme not only promises to illuminate homes but also paves the way for a brighter, greener future, empowering households to become active contributors to India's renewable energy revolution. With rooftop solar, every home can become a powerhouse of clean, sustainable energy, benefiting both the environment and the economy.
Post a Comment
0Comments