The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY), the world’s largest domestic rooftop solar scheme, is rapidly transforming India’s solar energy landscape. Launched in February 2024, the scheme has already achieved impressive milestones, with 6.3 lakh installations in just 9 months—averaging 70,000 per month, a sharp increase from the 7,000 per month prior to its launch. By March 2025, installations are projected to exceed 10 lakh, and the scheme aims for one crore installations by March 2027.
Key Achievements and Progress
Record Installation Growth
10 Lakh Target: The scheme is on track to surpass 10 lakh installations by March 2025, with rapid expansion to 40 lakh by March 2026.
State-Wise Success: States like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Uttar Pradesh are leading in installations, driven by strong infrastructure and collaborations.
Addressing Initial Challenges
Technical Barriers: Auto-load enhancements and waiving of Technical Feasibility Reports (TFR) for systems up to 10kW have expedited progress.
Vendor and Financing Support: Over 9,000 vendors have been activated, and affordable financing options are available through the Jan Samarth Portal.
Efficient Infrastructure and Consumer Process Streamlining
IT System Strengthening
Integration of 90 DISCOMs and banks has been key to scaling operations. Additionally, 40,000 personnel have been trained, with an additional 2 lakh technicians to be trained within the next 8 months.
Simplified Consumer Process
Consumers can now apply for solar installations in just 5 minutes through the PMSuryaghar Portal, which includes features like GIS to plan system capacity and loan application.
Subsidy Disbursement Success
Over ₹3,100 crore has been disbursed to four lakh consumers, with an average of 67,000 households receiving subsidies monthly. The entire process, from application to subsidy release, now takes just 15 days.
Future Outlook: Sustainable Growth and Global Benchmark
The PMSGMBY is not just achieving its ambitious targets but also setting a global benchmark for sustainable energy deployment. With its streamlined processes, large-scale infrastructure, and growing consumer base, the scheme is poised to deliver significant socio-economic and environmental benefits, marking India as a leader in renewable energy integration.