The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, launched in February 2024, is revolutionizing the lives of people in villages and towns by providing them with solar power. In Bihar’s Bhagalpur, hundreds of households have installed solar panels on their rooftops, utilizing solar energy to meet their electricity needs. Beneficiaries of the scheme have shared their experiences, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the initiative.
One beneficiary, dance instructor Mithilesh Kumar, stated that his electricity bill has become zero, and he only pays the meter charge. He appreciates the scheme, considering it a great boon in the era of global warming and climate change. Chartered Accountant Ambrish Agarwal has installed an 8 KW solar panel on his rooftop, while bank manager Sanjeev Kumar has seen his electricity bill reduce from over Rs 10,000 to just Rs 3,000-Rs 4,000.
The scheme has gained significant traction, with 908 consumers applying for solar connections in the Bhagalpur Sub-Division Mojihadpur. Many have already started receiving solar electricity at subsidized rates. The government provides a subsidy of Rs 78,000 for 1 kilowatt to 10 kilowatt, and an area of 100 to 300 square feet is required to install a solar panel of 1 kilowatt to 3 kilowatt on the roof of a house. The total cost comes to around Rs 2.5 lakh per unit, which can be financed through bank loans.
After availing the subsidy, if the electricity production exceeds home consumption, it is automatically exported to the power grid and adjusted in the consumer’s bill. The scheme has been well-received, with 161 applicants in Kahalgaon, 49 in Naugachia, 65 in Nathnagar, and 22 in Sultanganj set to benefit from the PM Surya Ghar Yojana. The initiative aims to empower lakhs of households with solar power, ensuring ease of living and promoting renewable energy.