Thiruvananthapuram: The Indian government is set to launch the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, a new initiative aimed at promoting rooftop solar power generation. Under this program, homeowners have the opportunity to lease their rooftops to Renewable Energy Service Companies (RESCO), which will install and maintain solar power systems at no cost to the homeowners. In return, homeowners can choose to receive either rental income or free electricity, making the program both environmentally and financially beneficial.
As per draft guidelines from the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, homeowners will not be responsible for any expenses related to the installation, maintenance, or operation of the solar panels. RESCO will manage all technical aspects, and the rent payments can be adjusted to reflect the homeowner’s electricity usage. Additionally, after five years, the ownership of the solar power plant will be transferred to the homeowner, offering long-term benefits.
Government agencies and institutions like the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) are also eligible to set up these systems. If homeowners generate more electricity than they need, RESCO can sell the excess power back to the KSEB grid, creating another revenue stream.
This initiative comes after challenges faced by previous projects like the KSEB’s Soura program, where companies were hesitant due to difficulties in managing rooftop solar systems and uncertainties about ownership and payment structures. The new PM Surya Ghar scheme aims to address these issues, making it easier for homeowners to contribute to renewable energy while potentially reducing their electricity costs or earning extra income.
