PM Surya Ghar Yojana provides eligible Rajasthan households with free 1.1 kW rooftop solar plants, generating up to 150 units of free electricity monthly to reduce bills and promote sustainable energy.
The Rajasthan government, under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, is offering free installation of 1.1 kilowatt (kW) rooftop solar plants to eligible domestic consumers, providing up to 150 units of free electricity per month. This initiative targets households previously enrolled in the Chief Minister’s Free Electricity Scheme, which granted 100 units of free electricity monthly through relief camps. These consumers will now have 1.1 kW solar plants installed by DISCOM-registered vendors at no cost, increasing their monthly free electricity entitlement to 150 units. Customers can avail bank loans for installing solar plants.
Pratapgarh district Superintending Engineer R.K. Agarwal announced that applications can be submitted at the local Assistant Engineer’s office, through feeder in-charges, or at weekly Gram Seva Shivirs held from Wednesday to Saturday at gram panchayat levels. Eligible households must have sufficient rooftop space (approximately 100-120 square feet) for the solar plant. For those lacking suitable rooftops, community solar plants will be established to ensure access to the scheme’s benefits, with virtual net metering credits allocated to participants.
The scheme is fully subsidized, with the central government providing Rs 30,000 for a 1 kW system (adjusted for 1.1 kW) and the Rajasthan government contributing an additional Rs 17,000, covering the total cost of approximately Rs 50,000 per plant. Households opting for larger systems (up to 3 kW) can avail central subsidies of up to Rs 78,000, supplemented by the state’s Rs 17,000 grant. Post-installation, consumers will receive 150 units of free electricity monthly, replacing the previous 100-unit waiver, with smart meters enabling net metering for accurate billing.
Eligible applicants include Indian citizens with valid domestic electricity connections, prioritizing those already receiving 100 units free under the prior scheme. The initiative aims to reduce electricity bills, promote renewable energy, and lower carbon emissions by harnessing Rajasthan’s abundant solar potential. Consumers are encouraged to apply promptly at nearby electricity offices or Gram Seva Shivirs to benefit from this sustainable solution.
A Win-Win Situation
Financially, the scheme is a win-win, backed by robust subsidies that make installations truly gratis. Each 1.1 kW plant costs around Rs 50,000, but the central government covers Rs 30,000-33,000 under PM Surya Ghar guidelines (scaled for 1 kW base, with additional for 0.1 kW). Rajasthan chips in Rs 17,000 more, fully subsidizing the rest and eliminating any upfront payment for beneficiaries. For larger systems (up to 3 kW), central aid escalates to Rs 78,000, with the state adding another Rs 17,000—ideal for households eyeing expansion. Smart meters, essential for net metering, come at a nominal Rs 75 monthly fee, offset by bill savings. Excess generation beyond 150 units earns credits, potentially yielding extra income.
FAQs on Benefits of Solar Plants
1. How does installing a 1.1 kW solar plant reduce my electricity bill?
The 1.1 kW rooftop solar plant generates up to 150 units of electricity per month, which is provided free to eligible households under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana. This replaces the previous 100-unit free electricity benefit, saving households approximately Rs 900-1,200 monthly on their bills, depending on tariff rates. Net metering ensures that any surplus energy fed back to the grid is credited, further reducing costs.
2. What environmental benefits does the solar plant offer?
By using solar energy, a clean and renewable source, the 1.1 kW plant reduces reliance on fossil fuels, cutting down carbon emissions. A single plant can prevent approximately 1.5-2 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, contributing to cleaner air and helping combat climate change in Rajasthan, a state with high solar potential due to over 300 sunny days per year.
3. How does the scheme promote energy independence and additional benefits?
The solar plant allows households to become “prosumers” (producers and consumers), generating their own electricity and reducing dependence on the grid. For households without suitable rooftops, community solar plants ensure access to the same benefits. Additionally, the scheme offers potential savings through surplus energy credits and promotes clean cooking with a complimentary induction cooktop, reducing LPG usage and indoor pollution.