With rising electricity costs and the growing need for clean energy, the importance of solar power is increasing in India. To encourage citizens to adopt solar energy, the Government of India has launched the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana in February 2024.
This scheme aims to install rooftop solar panels on 1 crore households and reduce the burden of electricity bills for poor and middle-class families. Under this yojana, the government provides 40% subsidy on the cost of solar panels, which can go up to ₹78,000, depending on the size of the panel.
What is PM Surya Ghar: Free Solar Panel Scheme?
The scheme is a major step to promote rooftop solar systems in India. The government targets to provide up to 300 units of free electricity per month to each household using solar panels.
Apart from saving electricity bills, this initiative helps the environment by reducing carbon pollution, since solar energy is renewable and clean.
Key Highlights of the Scheme
- Launch Date: 15 February 2024
- Target: 1 crore households
- Subsidy: ₹30,000 – ₹78,000 (depending on solar panel size)
- Coverage: 40% subsidy up to 3 kW, 20% beyond 3 kW
- Annual Savings: ₹15,000 – ₹18,000 on electricity bills
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
Benefits of Free Solar Panel Yojana
- Lower electricity bills – Families can save thousands every year.
- Government subsidy support – Panels become affordable for the poor and middle-class.
- Eco-friendly power – Reduced carbon emission helps fight climate change.
- Energy independence – Households become less dependent on power companies.
- Increase in property value – Homes with solar panels have higher market value.
- Durability – Solar panels last up to 25 years with minimal maintenance.
Eligibility for the Scheme
- Applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- House roof should be shade-free and suitable for solar panels.
- House must be registered in the applicant’s name.
- Priority is given to poor and middle-class families.
- Some states may also apply income criteria.
Required Documents
Only four major documents are needed to apply:
- Aadhaar Card
- Electricity Bill / Consumer Number
- Bank Account Details with Cancelled Cheque
- Passport-size Photograph
Subsidy Slabs
- 1–2 kW system → Subsidy ₹30,000 – ₹60,000
- 2–3 kW system → Subsidy ₹60,000 – ₹78,000
- Above 3 kW → 40% subsidy for first 3 kW + 20% subsidy on additional capacity
How to Apply Online?
- Go to the official website www.pmsuryaghar.gov.in.
- Register using state, DISCOM name, consumer number, mobile, and email.
- Wait for DISCOM approval.
- Choose a vendor from the approved list.
- Install solar panels and apply for net metering.
- Upload installation details and get a commissioning certificate.
- Provide bank details, and subsidy will be credited within 30 days.
Important Points to Know
- A 1 kW solar panel generates 4–5 units of electricity per day.
- Installation cost is about ₹60,000 – ₹65,000 per kW, which is recovered in 3–4 years through savings.
- At least 10 sq. meters roof space is required for each 1 kW panel.
- Extra power generated can be sent back to the grid using net metering.
Conclusion
The Free Solar Panel Yojana 2025 is a big opportunity for Indian households to cut down their electricity bills and move towards clean energy. With government subsidy support of up to ₹78,000, solar panels are now within the reach of poor and middle-class families.
If you want to reduce your electricity costs and contribute to a greener future, applying for this scheme is a smart step. However, make sure to apply only on the official government portal and avoid fake agents or websites.
FAQs
Are solar panels completely free under this scheme?
No, the government provides up to 40% subsidy, but the remaining cost must be paid by the applicant.
How much can a household save every year with solar panels?
Families can save ₹15,000 to ₹18,000 annually on electricity bills.
Can I apply offline for this scheme?
Yes, offline applications are possible, but online registration is faster and easier.
How much roof space is required?
At least 10 square meters of roof space is needed per 1 kW solar panel.
How long do solar panels last?
Solar panels have a lifespan of around 25 years with low maintenance.