Introduction
India is making rapid strides in renewable energy adoption, with the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana emerging as a key initiative to promote rooftop solar power. This scheme aims to provide free electricity to millions of households while reducing dependence on conventional power sources. Recently, it achieved a significant milestone of powering 10 lakh homes with rooftop solar energy, reinforcing India’s commitment to a sustainable future.
Achievements of PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana
10 Lakh Solar-Powered Homes: As of March 10, 2025, the scheme has successfully enabled 10 lakh households to install rooftop solar panels, reducing their reliance on grid electricity.
Massive Public Response: Over 47 lakh households have applied for the scheme, indicating a strong shift towards solar energy adoption.
Subsidy Disbursement: The government has allocated ₹4,770 crore in subsidies, benefiting 13 lakh households through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
Statewise Performance: Gujarat leads with 3.51 lakh installations (41.47%), followed by Uttar Pradesh (73,602) and Kerala (65,423), showcasing regional progress in solar adoption.
Key Benefits of PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana
Lower Electricity Bills: Households with solar installations generate their own power, significantly reducing monthly electricity expenses.
Reduced Government Expenditure: The scheme is projected to save the government ₹75,000 crore annually in power subsidies and procurement costs.
Environmental Impact: The scheme aims to cut CO₂ emissions by 720 million tonnes over 25 years, aligning with India’s climate action goals.
Job Creation: An estimated 17 lakh direct jobs are expected to be created in solar panel installation, maintenance, and manufacturing.
Boost to Domestic Manufacturing: The scheme promotes 'Make in India' by mandating the use of domestically manufactured solar modules and cells.
Challenges Faced by the Scheme
High Initial Costs: Despite subsidies, the upfront installation cost remains a barrier, especially for low-income households.
Limited Awareness: Many eligible households are unaware of the scheme’s benefits, application procedures, and long-term savings potential.
Grid Integration Issues: The existing power infrastructure lacks the capability to efficiently manage distributed solar power generation.
Slow Loan Disbursement: Although 10 lakh applications were received, only 1.28 lakh loans have been processed, slowing down financial accessibility.
Technical Limitations: Solar power’s intermittent nature necessitates advanced energy storage solutions and better grid connectivity.
Way Forward for Successful Implementation
Strengthening Awareness Campaigns: Utilize digital platforms, NGOs, and local governance bodies to educate citizens about the scheme’s benefits.
Enhancing Financial Support: Introduce zero-interest loans and streamline loan disbursement to encourage greater adoption.
Upgrading Grid Infrastructure: Invest in smart grids and energy storage solutions to efficiently integrate solar power into the national grid.
Expanding Beneficiary Base: Simplify the application and subsidy processes to ensure faster approvals and transparent tracking for applicants.
Encouraging Private Sector Participation: Offer incentives to solar companies for providing cost-effective solutions, making rooftop solar more accessible.
Conclusion
The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a transformative initiative driving India towards clean energy sustainability. With strong policy backing, technological advancements, and public participation, this scheme has the potential to revolutionize India's solar energy sector, making renewable power accessible to millions of households.
MCQs for UPSC CSE
What is the primary objective of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana? a) Promote hydroelectric power generation b) Provide free rooftop solar power to households c) Encourage nuclear energy adoption d) Develop wind energy farms
Answer: b) Provide free rooftop solar power to households
Which Indian state has the highest number of rooftop solar installations under the scheme? a) Maharashtra b) Tamil Nadu c) Gujarat d) Karnataka
Answer: c) Gujarat
How much CO₂ emission reduction is expected from this scheme over 25 years? a) 500 million tonnes b) 720 million tonnes c) 900 million tonnes d) 1,000 million tonnes
Answer: b) 720 million tonnes
Which of the following is a major challenge in implementing the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana? a) Lack of solar panel manufacturers in India b) High initial installation costs c) Low government support d) Excessive coal dependency
Answer: b) High initial installation costs
What is a key benefit of the scheme for the Indian economy? a) Reducing foreign investment in energy b) Increasing reliance on fossil fuels c) Saving ₹75,000 crore annually in subsidies and procurement d) Reducing agricultural power consumption
Answer: c) Saving ₹75,000 crore annually in subsidies and procurement
Mains Question for UPSC CSE
"India has immense potential for solar energy, but regional disparities exist in its adoption." Discuss in light of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and suggest measures to bridge this gap. (250 words)