Introduction

PM Modi announced the launch of the ‘Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana,’ a government initiative aimed at providing rooftop solar power systems to one crore households in India.
This ambitious scheme builds upon previous efforts to promote rooftop solar installations in the country, addressing the growing demand for clean and sustainable energy sources.

About Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana

Rooftop Solar Installations: The scheme focuses on the installation of solar power systems on 1 crore residential rooftops.
Reduced Electricity Bills: It aims to reduce electricity bills for households, especially benefitting the “poor and middle class.”
Energy Self-Reliance: The scheme aligns with India’s goal of achieving self-reliance in the energy sector.

Total Solar Capacity: As of December 2023, India boasts a total solar power installed capacity of approximately 73.31 GW.
Rooftop Solar Capacity: The rooftop solar capacity stands at around 11.08 GW, emphasizing the need for expansion.
Leading States: Rajasthan leads in total solar capacity with 18.7 GW, while Gujarat tops the list in rooftop solar capacity with 2.8 GW.

Growing Energy Demand: India is projected to experience substantial energy demand growth over the next 30 years, requiring a reliable energy source.
Diversifying Energy Mix: To meet this demand and reduce dependency on coal, India aims to reach 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
Solar Power Growth: India has significantly increased its solar power capacity, from less than 10 MW in 2010 to 70.10 GW in 2023.

Launched in 2014: The programme seeks to boost rooftop solar installations in the residential sector.
Financial Assistance: It offers Central Financial Assistance and incentives to distribution companies (DISCOMs).
Capacity Target: The programme aims to achieve 40 GW of rooftop solar capacity by March 2026, having already grown from 1.8 GW in March 2019 to 10.4 GW by November 2023.
Consumer Benefits: Consumers can access the scheme through DISCOM tendered projects or the National Portal. They have the flexibility to select vendors and solar equipment. Subsidies are directly transferred to their bank accounts, and surplus solar power can be exported to the grid, offering monetary benefits.

The news scheme signifies India’s commitment to harnessing solar power as a clean and sustainable energy source for its growing population.
With a focus on residential rooftop installations, this scheme aims to reduce electricity bills for millions of households while contributing to India’s energy self-reliance goals.