In the Interim Budget 2024–2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the Solar Rooftop Scheme, officially named the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. The program pledges up to 300 units of free electricity per month for one crore households. Since its launch, over 1.28 crore registrations have already been completed.
Rooftop Solar Yojana / PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana Overview
| Scheme Name | Rooftop Solar Scheme (PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana) |
| Launch Date | 15 February 2024 |
| Target Beneficiaries | Low- and middle-income Indian households who own a home |
| Subsidy Amount | ₹30,000 to ₹78,000 towards solar panel installation |
| Key Benefit | Free monthly electricity generated by rooftop solar panels (up to 300 units) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | https://www.pmsuryaghar.gov.in/ |
| Helpline Number | 15555 |
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About PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana
Launched on 15 February 2024, the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a major government initiative to accelerate rooftop solar adoption across India. The scheme aims to install solar systems in one crore homes, offering subsidies that can cover up to 40% of the installation cost. Households are expected to benefit from lower electricity bills and potential revenue from surplus power fed back to the grid, while the government anticipates large-scale savings in conventional power expenditure.
Objectives of the Scheme
The primary objective of the PM Solar Rooftop Yojana is to supply up to 300 free electricity units per month to one crore families. Beyond direct household savings, the scheme seeks to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, expand renewable energy capacity, and promote sustainable energy practices nationwide.
Key Benefits
The program provides multiple economic and environmental advantages, making solar power more accessible and supporting green growth.
- Households can reduce annual electricity expenses and earn from surplus power, contributing to overall cost savings.
- Solar power supports electric vehicle charging and other clean-energy uses at home.
- The scheme creates market opportunities for solar panel manufacturers and suppliers.
- It generates jobs in installation, operations and maintenance for skilled technicians.
- Widespread rooftop solar reduces carbon emissions and advances clean-energy targets.
Eligibility Criteria
The scheme targets homeowners who can install rooftop solar systems and meet basic eligibility requirements:
- Applicants must be Indian citizens.
- Preference given to low- and middle-income households.
- The house must have a rooftop suitable for solar panel installation.
- A valid electrical connection is required.
- Applicants should not have previously received other solar subsidies for the same system.
Installation Subsidies
The government provides financial support to lower upfront costs for rooftop solar installations. Subsidy levels are designed to encourage adoption across different system sizes:
- Up to 2 kW: ₹30,000 per kW
- Additional capacity up to 3 kW: ₹18,000 per kW
- Systems above 3 kW: Maximum total subsidy of ₹78,000
How the Subsidy Works
Eligible applicants apply online through the designated portal and register details such as state, electricity provider and consumer number. After DISCOM approval and installation by a registered vendor, net metering is arranged where applicable and subsidy payments are processed to the beneficiary’s bank account within the stipulated timeframe.
Conclusion
The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a targeted government program that subsidises rooftop solar installations for low- and middle-income homeowners, aiming to lower energy costs, increase renewable generation, and reduce environmental impact. By making rooftop solar more affordable, the scheme supports energy independence and green economic opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the PM Solar Yojana?
Eligibility requires Indian nationality, ownership of a rooftop suitable for solar panels, a functional electrical connection and no prior receipt of subsidies for the same solar system.
Can a renter install a rooftop solar system?
Renters may be able to install a rooftop solar system under net or gross metering arrangements if they have a valid electricity connection, pay bills on time and obtain the roof owner’s consent for installation.
Is PM Surya Ghar entirely free?
The scheme provides up to 300 units of electricity per month, but the solar system itself is subsidised—not fully free. The government offers up to a 40% subsidy on installation costs rather than covering the entire installation expense.
How can I apply for a solar subsidy in India?
To apply for a solar subsidy:
- Visit the National Portal for Solar Rooftop Yojana and register online.
- Provide details such as state, electricity provider and consumer number.
- Submit an application for rooftop solar installation and wait for DISCOM approval.
- Install panels through a registered vendor and apply for net metering as required.
- Share bank details to receive the subsidy, which is typically processed within the stipulated period after installation.