With rising electricity costs and growing environmental concerns, the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is a game-changer for Indian households. Launched on February 15, 2024, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this scheme aims to provide up to 300 units of free electricity per month to 1 crore households by installing rooftop solar panels. Offering subsidies of up to 60% on installation costs, it’s an excellent opportunity to embrace clean energy and reduce your electricity bills. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of applying for the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, eligibility criteria, and tips to maximize your benefits.
What is PM Surya Ghar Yojana?
The PM Surya Ghar Yojana is a government initiative to promote solar energy adoption across India. With a budget of ₹75,021 crore, the scheme provides financial assistance to install rooftop solar systems, covering up to 60% of the cost for systems up to 2 kW and 40% for systems between 2-3 kW, capped at ₹78,000. It aims to:
- Reduce electricity bills for low and middle-income families (annual income less than ₹2 lakh).
- Promote green energy and reduce carbon emissions.
- Create jobs in solar panel manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.
- Enable households to sell surplus electricity to DISCOMs for additional income.
As of April 2025, over 95 lakh households have registered, making it one of India’s most impactful renewable energy programs.
Who is Eligible for PM Surya Ghar Yojana?
Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be an Indian citizen.
- Property Ownership: Own a residential property with a rooftop suitable for solar panel installation.
- Electricity Connection: Have a valid electricity connection in your name.
- Income: Priority for households with an annual income below ₹2 lakh.
- No Prior Subsidies: Households that haven’t availed other solar subsidies are eligible.
Note: Non-residents, households without roofs (e.g., apartments without rooftop rights), off-grid system users, and government employees are not eligible.
(https://pmsuryaghar.in/pm-surya-ghar-yojana-eligibility-criteria/)
Guide to Apply for PM Surya Ghar Yojana
Applying for the PM Surya Ghar Yojana is simple and can be done online through the official portal. Follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to pmsuryaghar.gov.in. Click on the “Apply for Rooftop Solar” button.
- Register: Select your state and electricity distribution company (DISCOM). Enter your electricity consumer number, mobile number, and email. Verify your mobile number with the OTP received.
- Log In: Use your consumer number and mobile number to log in. Fill out the online application form, uploading your electricity bill and a photo of the rooftop where panels will be installed.
- Submit Application: Enter the captcha code and submit the form. Wait for feasibility approval from your DISCOM, which assesses your rooftop’s suitability.
- Choose a Vendor: Once approved, select a registered vendor from your DISCOM’s list to install the solar system. The portal provides vendor ratings and system size recommendations.
- Installation: The vendor will install the solar panels. After installation, submit plant details on the portal and apply for a net meter to track electricity generation and consumption.
- Inspection and Commissioning: DISCOM will inspect the installation and issue a commissioning certificate through the portal.
- Receive Subsidy: Submit your bank account details and a cancelled cheque via the portal. The subsidy (₹30,000–₹78,000, depending on system capacity) will be credited within 30 days.
(https://pmsuryaghar.org.in/pm-surya-ghar-yojana-apply-online-process/)
Pro Tip: Use the Solar Rooftop Calculator on the portal to estimate your system size, subsidy, and savings based on your electricity consumption and rooftop area.
(https://pmsuryaghar.org.in/pm-surya-ghar-yojana-solar-rooftop-calculator/)
Contact Us for Expert Solar Installation Services
Benefits of PM Surya Ghar Yojana
By enrolling in the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, you can:
- Save on Bills: Save up to ₹15,000–₹18,000 annually by consuming up to 300 units of free electricity.
(https://bluebirdsolar.com/blogs/all/pm-surya-ghar-muft-bijli-yojana)
- Earn Income: Sell surplus electricity to DISCOMs for additional revenue.
- Go Green: Reduce your carbon footprint with clean, renewable energy.
- Easy Relocation: Solar systems can be dismantled and reinstalled if you move to a new residence.
- Long-Term Savings: Recover installation costs within 5 years, with panels lasting 20–25 years.
(https://pmsuryaghar.in/pm-surya-ghar-yojana-eligibility-criteria/)
Why Choose Us for Your Solar Installation?
At Solar Earth, we are a registered vendor under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, offering end-to-end solar solutions. Our services include:
- Free rooftop assessments to determine system suitability.
- High-quality solar panels with 25-year warranties.
- Expert installation and maintenance for optimal performance.
- Assistance with application and subsidy claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the PM Surya Ghar Yojana completely free?
A: The scheme provides subsidies covering up to 60% of installation costs, but it’s not entirely free. You may need to cover the remaining cost, which can be offset by low-interest loans.
Q: Can I apply if I live in a rented house?
A: You need permission from the property owner to install solar panels. If approved, you can apply, and the system can be relocated if you move.
Q: How long does the application process take?
A: From application to subsidy receipt, the process typically takes 2–3 months, depending on DISCOM approval and installation timelines.
Q: What is the subsidy amount?
A: Subsidies range from ₹30,000 per kW for up to 2 kW, ₹18,000 per kW for 2–3 kW, and are capped at ₹78,000 for systems above 3 kW.