The Government of India has taken another big step towards clean energy and affordable electricity for citizens. The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, announced in February 2024, is a flagship scheme that aims to provide up to 300 units of free electricity every month to one crore households by promoting rooftop solar panels.

With an investment of more than ₹75,000 crore, this scheme will not only reduce household electricity bills but also support India’s goal of becoming a leader in renewable energy.

What Is PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana?

The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a government scheme under which households can install solar rooftop systems and generate their own electricity. The government provides a subsidy and financial assistance for the installation, so that families do not have to bear the full cost.

The power generated from the rooftop solar system will be used for household consumption, and any excess electricity can be supplied back to the grid through net metering. In return, households can enjoy free electricity of up to 300 units per month, which is sufficient for an average family’s basic needs.

Main Features of the Scheme

1. Free Electricity up to 300 Units
   Every eligible household can receive up to 300 units of electricity per month without paying charges.
2. Government Subsidy
   The central government offers a subsidy for installing rooftop solar panels. The subsidy amount depends on the system capacity, but it reduces the total cost by a large margin. The subsidy will be credited directly into the applicant’s bank account after installation.
3. Bank Loan Facility
   Households can also take concessional loans for the remaining amount after subsidy, making the installation affordable.
4. Simple Online Application
   The scheme has a dedicated online portal – pmsuryaghar.gov.in – where citizens can apply by providing details like state, district, DISCOM name and electricity consumer number.
5. Contribution to Green Energy
   By adopting solar power, households will reduce dependence on coal-based electricity, cut carbon emissions, and support India’s commitment towards clean and renewable energy.

Benefits for Households and the Nation

• Lower Electricity Bills: Families can save thousands of rupees every year.
• Energy Independence: Homes will produce their own power and rely less on the grid.
• Clean Environment: Rooftop solar reduces pollution and greenhouse gases.
• Job Creation: The scheme will boost solar panel manufacturing, installation, and maintenance jobs.
• Support for Rural Areas: Even villages and semi-urban households can access reliable power.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, the applicant must:

• Be a resident of India.
• Have a working electricity connection in his/her name.
• Own a rooftop suitable for solar installation.
• Apply through the official portal and choose an approved vendor for installation.

The exact subsidy percentage and loan options may vary slightly depending on the state and electricity distribution company (DISCOM).

How to Apply for the Scheme

Applying for the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is simple:

1. Visit the official portal – pmsuryaghar.gov.in.
2. Register with state, district, DISCOM, and electricity account number.
3. Login and choose an approved vendor from the list.
4. Get a feasibility approval from your DISCOM.
5. Install the solar rooftop system through the selected vendor.
6. After inspection and approval, the subsidy amount will be transferred to your bank account.
7. Start enjoying free electricity up to 300 units per month.

Progress So Far

The scheme has already seen a positive response across the country:

• Over 10 lakh households have installed rooftop solar panels under this scheme.
• States like Gujarat and Haryana are leading in adoption, with lakhs of homes already solar powered.
• Many state governments are also adding their own incentives along with the central subsidy to encourage faster adoption.

Challenges to Be Addressed

While the scheme is very beneficial, there are a few challenges:

• Upfront Cost: Even after subsidy, some families may find it difficult to arrange the balance cost.
• Awareness: Many people in rural and remote areas are still unaware of the scheme.
• Quality of Installation: It is important that only approved vendors are used to avoid poor-quality panels or systems.
• Net Metering: Coordination with DISCOMs is required for proper billing and credit of extra power supplied to the grid.

Conclusion

The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a landmark step to make India’s households energy-secure, reduce dependence on expensive electricity, and push the country towards a greener future. For families, it means free electricity up to 300 units every month, big savings on bills, and a chance to be part of India’s renewable energy movement.

If you own a home with a rooftop, this is the best time to apply and make your house self-reliant in power. With trusted partners like Chikara Enterprises Pvt. Ltd., you can ensure proper guidance, quality installation, and hassle-free support under the scheme. The sun can now light up your home – truly at no cost.