Varanasi Villages Set for Solar Power Transformation
Seven villages adopted by Varanasi MP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are poised to receive a significant green energy boost. These rural communities will benefit from free solar energy installations through the government's PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme.
Targeting Energy Independence
This initiative marks a major step toward making rural areas energy-independent. Officials plan to install solar panels in houses constructed under various housing schemes and corporate social responsibility funds.
Chief Development Officer Prakhar Kumar Singh confirmed the plan. He stated that under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana in Pradhan Mantri Sansad Adarsh Gram, free solar panel installations are scheduled.
Villages Included in the Scheme
The program covers specific villages across different development blocks:
- Araji Line block: Jayapur, Nagepur, and Parampur
- Sevapuri block: Bariyarpur and Pure
- Kashi Vidyapeeth block: Kakrahiya and Kurhua
Implementation Phases
The project will roll out in two distinct phases:
- First Phase: Installation of 2 kW solar power plants in over 500 houses. This initial phase specifically targets homes built under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana, and CSR-funded constructions.
- Second Phase: Expansion to approximately 1,000 houses. This phase will include villages adjacent to the Pradhan Mantri Sansad Adarsh Gram villages.
Funding Mechanism
UPNEDA Senior Project Officer Shashi Gupta explained the financial structure. Grants from both central and state governments will support the scheme. CSR funds will also contribute.
Payments to vendors will come directly from these combined sources: central government grants, state government grants, and corporate social responsibility funds.
The comprehensive approach ensures that selected households receive complete solar installations without any direct cost to them.
