Chandigarh Residents Embrace Solar Power with PM Surya Ghar Scheme
In a significant move towards sustainable energy adoption, 79 residents of Chandigarh have officially registered for the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. This central government initiative, launched to promote rooftop solar installations across India, is gaining traction in the union territory as households seek to harness solar power for their electricity needs.
Details of the Registration Drive
The registrations were recorded through the official online portal dedicated to the scheme. Authorities report that these applications represent a diverse cross-section of Chandigarh's population, including:
- Homeowners from various residential sectors
- Individuals interested in reducing their carbon footprint
- Residents aiming to cut down on monthly electricity expenses
Under the PM Surya Ghar scheme, beneficiaries are eligible for substantial financial subsidies to install rooftop solar panels. The government provides up to 40% subsidy for systems up to 3 kW and 20% for systems between 3 kW and 10 kW. Additionally, applicants can avail of low-interest loans to cover the remaining costs, making solar power more accessible.
Benefits and Impact on Chandigarh
The scheme is expected to bring multiple advantages to the registered households and the city at large:
- Reduced Electricity Bills: By generating their own solar power, residents can significantly lower their dependence on the grid, leading to savings of thousands of rupees annually.
- Environmental Sustainability: Increased solar adoption helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with Chandigarh's goals for a cleaner, greener urban environment.
- Energy Security: Rooftop solar installations enhance local energy resilience, providing a reliable power source during grid outages.
Officials from the Chandigarh Renewable Energy and Science & Technology Promotion Society (CREST) have been actively promoting the scheme through awareness campaigns and workshops. They emphasize that the 79 registrations mark a positive start, with expectations for more households to join as awareness grows.
Challenges and Future Prospects
While the initial response is encouraging, challenges remain, such as:
- Ensuring timely installation and grid connectivity for approved applications
- Addressing technical queries from residents unfamiliar with solar technology
- Expanding outreach to underserved communities in Chandigarh
The government aims to install rooftop solar systems in one crore households nationwide under this scheme. In Chandigarh, the target is to boost solar capacity significantly, contributing to India's renewable energy targets. Experts suggest that with continued support and streamlined processes, the city could see a surge in registrations in the coming months.
Residents interested in applying can visit the PM Surya Ghar portal, where they can calculate potential subsidies, check eligibility, and submit their applications. The scheme not only supports individual households but also fosters a community-wide shift towards sustainable living in Chandigarh.
