The Tripura government has announced a new initiative to provide solar panels to households consuming less than 50 units of electricity per month, in exchange for a nominal fee of Rs 1000. This move aims to promote renewable energy and reduce the financial burden on low-income families.
Eligibility and Beneficiaries
Around 1.5 lakh families have been identified as eligible for this scheme. The initiative targets those with minimal electricity usage, enabling them to generate their own power and potentially lower their monthly bills.
Subsidies and System Costs
Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath announced that the government is offering substantial subsidies for solar systems under this program. For a one kilowatt solar system, the subsidy is Rs 33,000; for a two kilowatt system, it is Rs 66,000; and for a three kilowatt system, the subsidy reaches Rs 85,800. These subsidies make solar energy accessible to a broader segment of the population.
Progress Under PM Suryaghar Project
The initiative is part of the central government's PM Suryaghar project. So far, 11 megawatts of solar power have been added in the state, with 17,000 registrations and 3,500 installations completed by families. The minister expressed optimism about achieving further milestones in the coming months.
Training and Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and efficiency of the solar systems, the Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL) has partnered with Germany-based organization GIZ. Together, they are conducting training sessions for officials, engineers, and vendors on the maintenance and repair of solar panels. This collaboration aims to build local expertise and support sustainable energy adoption.
The scheme is expected to not only reduce electricity costs for low-income households but also contribute to the state's renewable energy goals. The government encourages eligible families to register and avail of the benefits.
