Nagpur: The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has garnered a significant response across Maharashtra, especially in the Vidarbha region. Across Vidarbha, 26,439 consumers of Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (MSEDCL) installed rooftop solar systems, contributing to a total installed capacity of 106.91 MW. A subsidy of Rs205.90 crore was approved for these consumers, said MSEDCL officials adding that Rs165.41 crore has already been deposited in the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.
"Vidarbha performed very well, especially Nagpur district, which topped the state for installing the highest number of rooftop solar panels under the PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme," said an official.
Apart from the already installed solar panels, 75,729 more consumers in Vidarbha are ready to install the systems, and 913 installations are in the final stage. Interestingly, in Nagpur district, 11,327 consumers benefited from the scheme, achieving a combined installed solar capacity of 46.15 MW. "Remarkably, 18.53% of the state's total beneficiaries under this scheme are from Nagpur, highlighting the district's enthusiasm for clean energy adoption," said MSEDCL officials.
MSEDCL officials said that the initiative aims to provide free electricity for up to 300 units per month while enabling consumers to generate additional income by selling surplus solar energy. "Beneficiaries in Nagpur were sanctioned subsidies worth Rs85.67 crore, out of which Rs65.42 crore has been transferred to their bank accounts. The remaining subsidies are in the process of disbursal, ensuring that more households can enjoy the financial and environmental benefits of solar power," the MSEDCL said.
Nagpur is followed by Amravati (4,196 beneficiaries), Akola (1,878), Wardha (1,773), Buldhana (1,629), Chandrapur (1,343), Yavatmal (1,336), Bhandara (1,026), Gondia (761), Washim (599), and Gadchiroli (571).
As per MSEDCL, the scheme offers financial incentives: Rs30,000 for a 1 kW rooftop solar project, Rs60,000 for 2 kW, and Rs78,000 for 3 kW or more. The 1 kW system generates approximately 120 units of electricity per month. "By reducing electricity bills to zero and allowing surplus energy to be sold back to the grid, the scheme ensures both financial savings and environmental sustainability," said MSEDCL.
Since the launch of the scheme in February this year, 69,118 rooftop solar systems have been installed across Maharashtra, contributing a total capacity of 273.72 MW. Subsidies worth Rs567.93 crore were sanctioned, and Rs465.65 crore disbursed. "The state received over 3.08 lakh applications for the scheme, showcasing its widespread popularity," MSEDCL said.
Consumers interested in availing of the scheme can register on www.pmsuryaghar.gov.in. After initial approval, they can proceed with further applications on the MSEDCL website. The scheme aims to achieve energy independence while contributing to a cleaner, greener future.