Image Source: Social

The Indian government’s ambitious PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is rapidly transforming the country’s energy landscape, aiming to supply solar power to one crore households by March 2027. Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February 2024, this world’s largest domestic rooftop solar initiative has already made impressive strides, with more than 6.3 lakh installations completed in just nine months. The scheme is projected to surpass 10 lakh installations by March 2025, doubling to 20 lakh by October 2025, and reaching 40 lakh by March 2026.

Under the initiative, eligible households receive free electricity through the installation of subsidized rooftop solar panels, reducing their dependence on conventional power sources and lowering electricity bills. The government is offering subsidies of up to 40% on the cost of installation, with additional financial support through collateral-free, low-interest loans for households. As the program rolls out, it is expected to save the Indian government ₹75,000 crore annually in electricity costs, making a significant contribution to national savings.

Big Savings, Big Impact for Households and the Environment

Beyond the immediate financial benefits for households, the PM Surya Ghar scheme offers long-term environmental and economic advantages. By promoting the use of renewable energy, the scheme is expected to generate 30 gigawatts of new solar capacity in the residential sector, contributing to India’s clean energy goals. The rooftop solar systems will help reduce carbon dioxide emissions by an estimated 720 million tonnes over their 25-year lifetime.

Households that install solar panels will not only save on their electricity bills but can also generate additional income by selling surplus electricity back to the grid. For example, a 3 kW system can produce over 300 units of electricity each month, potentially turning every home into a mini power producer.