Mandi residents exhorted to take advantage of free solar power scheme

Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board, Mandi, Chief Engineer Arun Sharma recently shared details about the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar-Free Electricity Scheme in the state.

The primary objective of this scheme was to provide free electricity to one crore families across India, who wish to install rooftop solar panel systems, he said.

The scheme was a Central initiative designed to encourage the adoption of solar rooftop systems by providing financial subsidies and ensuring ease of installation, Sharma added.

Under the scheme, a 3-kW rooftop solar system will be capable of generating 300 units of electricity per month.

The implementation of the scheme would take place at two levels — nationally through the National Programme Implementation Agency, and at the state level by state agencies along with the respective state’s power distribution utilities or energy departments, he said.

The scheme provided subsidies of Rs 33,000 for a 1-kW system, Rs 66,000 for a 2-kW system, and Rs 85,000 for a 3-kW system, Sharma added.

The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar-Free Electricity Scheme will also allow families to benefit from reduced electricity bills and generate additional income by selling surplus electricity to distribution companies.

Local panchayats or urban local bodies in the area will receive an incentive of Rs 1,000 per unit for the installation of solar rooftop systems.

Sharma highlighted that the scheme is expected to create direct employment for approximately 17 lakh people across various sectors including manufacturing, logistics, supply chain, installation, operation and maintenance.