New Delhi
Chandigarh and Daman and Diu have become leaders in clean energy adoption by achieving 100% of their rooftop solar targets for government buildings, the government announced on Thursday. These regions are setting an example for the rest of India, with states like Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu also showing remarkable progress in solar installations.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is closely monitoring the nationwide effort to ensure timely and smooth execution of solar projects, with a target of equipping 1 crore households with rooftop solar by 2026-27.
The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY), launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 13, 2024, has already made significant strides, reaching a historic milestone of 10 lakh solar-powered homes. With 47.3 lakh applications received, the initiative has distributed Rs 4,770 crore in subsidies to over 6 lakh beneficiaries, accelerating solar adoption.
The scheme provides easy financing, offering collateral-free loans up to Rs 2 lakh at a subsidized interest rate. As of now, 1.58 lakh loans have been sanctioned. The program has also introduced a seamless 15-day subsidy transfer process, and for many beneficiaries, it’s leading to zero electricity bills.
Every solar installation under PMSGMBY contributes to reducing carbon emissions, equating to planting 100 trees. The scheme is expected to save the government Rs 75,000 crore annually in electricity costs, while advancing India’s goals for a greener and more sustainable future.
