The PM – Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is one of the most ambitious initiatives launched by the Government of India to promote renewable energy and reduce dependence on traditional electricity sources. Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 15th February 2024, this scheme aims to empower households across India by providing them with free electricity through rooftop solar installations.
Under this program, eligible households will receive government subsidies up to 40% of the total cost of solar panels. This will make it affordable for families to install rooftop solar plants and reduce their electricity bills significantly. With an ambitious target of reaching 1 crore households, the scheme is not just about cost savings but also about reducing carbon emissions, increasing energy independence, and supporting the national mission of a sustainable future.
The initiative is expected to save the government around ₹75,000 crore annually in electricity costs while ensuring households benefit directly by receiving up to 300 units of free electricity every month.
Objectives of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana
The main objectives of the scheme are as follows:
- Free Electricity to Households – To provide free power to residential households, reducing their monthly expenses.
- Promoting Renewable Energy – To encourage the adoption of solar power and reduce dependency on non-renewable sources like coal and gas.
- Environmental Sustainability – To lower carbon emissions and contribute toward a cleaner and greener India.
- Economic Savings – To save substantial government expenditure on electricity subsidies by promoting self-reliant solar energy systems.
- Empowering Citizens – To make every household an energy producer by generating their own solar power and potentially feeding surplus energy into the grid.
Key Features of the Scheme
The PM – Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana comes with several unique features that make it one of the most beneficial initiatives for Indian citizens:
- Launched on 15th February 2024 by the Hon’ble Prime Minister.
- Target to benefit 1 crore households across India.
- Provides 40% subsidy for rooftop solar panel installations.
- Households consuming up to 300 units of electricity per month will get it free of cost.
- Subsidy is directly transferred to the beneficiary’s bank account.
- Net metering facility allows households to send excess energy back to the grid.
- Promotes energy independence by reducing dependency on conventional electricity sources.
- Helps India move closer to achieving its renewable energy goals.
Financial Assistance / Subsidy Amount
The subsidy amount varies depending on the household’s electricity consumption and solar panel capacity:
| Average Monthly Electricity Consumption (Units) | Suitable Rooftop Solar Plant Capacity | Subsidy Support |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – 150 Units | 1 – 2 kW | ₹30,000 – ₹60,000 |
| 150 – 300 Units | 2 – 3 kW | ₹60,000 – ₹78,000 |
| Above 300 Units | Above 3 kW | ₹78,000 |
This ensures that households across different consumption levels can benefit, making it inclusive for both small and large families.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, applicants must meet the following eligibility conditions:
- The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- The applicant must be the owner of the house with a suitable roof for solar panel installation.
- The household must have a valid electricity connection.
- The household must not have availed any other solar subsidy under a different scheme.
- The applicant must have a bank account linked with Aadhaar for subsidy transfer.
Reservation Policy
While the scheme is open to all eligible households, the government ensures inclusive development by prioritizing:
- Economically weaker sections.
- Middle-class families who spend a larger share of income on electricity bills.
- Families residing in urban and semi-urban areas where energy demand is high.
- Rural households, ensuring equal access to solar energy benefits.
The government encourages participation from all communities, with a focus on achieving universal renewable energy access.
Distribution of Subsidy and Benefits
The distribution process under this scheme is transparent and streamlined:
- Subsidy is credited directly into the beneficiary’s bank account within 30 days of installation and verification.
- Households receive free electricity up to 300 units per month.
- Any excess power generated can be fed into the local grid under the net-metering arrangement, potentially reducing bills further.
- Over time, households can save thousands of rupees annually while contributing to a greener environment.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
The application process for the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is simple and user-friendly:
Step 1: Registration
- Visit the official portal dedicated to the scheme.
- Select your State and Electricity Distribution Company (DISCOM).
- Enter your Electricity Consumer Number, Mobile Number, and Email ID.
- Complete the registration process as guided.
Step 2: Login
- Use your Consumer Number and Mobile Number to log in.
Step 3: Apply for Rooftop Solar
- Fill in the application form with the required details.
- Select the desired rooftop solar plant capacity based on your electricity consumption.
Step 4: Feasibility Approval
- DISCOM will review your application and issue a feasibility approval.
Step 5: Installation of Solar Plant
- After approval, install the solar plant through registered vendors authorized by DISCOM.
Step 6: Submission of Plant Details
- Once the plant is installed, submit details including installation proof.
Step 7: Net Meter Installation
- Apply for a net meter to track power usage and surplus power supplied to the grid.
Step 8: Inspection & Commissioning Certificate
- DISCOM officials will conduct an inspection and generate a commissioning certificate.
Step 9: Subsidy Transfer
- Upload bank account details along with a cancelled cheque.
- Subsidy amount will be transferred directly to your bank account within 30 days.
Documents Required
Applicants must keep the following documents ready for a smooth application process:
- Proof of Identity (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card, Passport).
- Proof of Address (Utility bill, Ration Card, Aadhaar).
- Electricity Bill (Latest).
- Roof Ownership Certificate (Property papers or other proof).
- Bank Account Details (Passbook copy/cancelled cheque).
- Passport-sized Photographs of the applicant.
Expected Impact of the Scheme
- Household Savings: Families will save thousands annually on electricity bills.
- Government Savings: Estimated savings of ₹75,000 crore per year.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and promotion of green energy.
- Job Creation: Increase in demand for solar panel manufacturing, installation, and maintenance will generate new employment opportunities.
- Energy Independence: Moves India closer to becoming an energy self-reliant nation.
