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Solar Panels Become More Affordable: Get an Additional Subsidy of ₹1,000 Crore – How to Apply?

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The Gujarat government is offering an additional subsidy for the installation of solar panels, with a total allocation of ₹1,000 crore. Different levels of financial assistance will be provided to the general category and SC/ST communities.

Nowadays, electricity bills are a burden not just during the summer; the use of appliances like geysers and heaters in the winter can also lead to higher bills. Consequently, many people are now installing solar panels on their rooftops to find relief from high electricity costs. If you are from Gujarat and are considering installing solar panels, there is an important update for you.

The state government has announced an additional subsidy of ₹1,000 crore under the 'Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana' (Prime Minister's Solar Home: Free Electricity Scheme). This will significantly reduce the cost for those installing solar panels. It is expected that several lakh families will benefit from this initiative. Let’s look at the details of the government subsidy available for solar panel installations.


How much subsidy will be provided?

Under this new arrangement by the Gujarat government, the subsidy amount will vary. Families in the general category will be required to pay 10% of the fixed cost of the solar system themselves. Here is the breakdown for general category families:

1 kW solar system – With a fixed cost of ₹54,000, the family will need to pay ₹5,400.
2 kW solar system – With a fixed cost of ₹1,07,200, the family will need to pay ₹10,720.

How much will SC/ST families have to pay?

For families belonging to the SC/ST categories, the contribution required is only 5% of the fixed cost of the solar system. 1 kW Solar System – It has a fixed cost of ₹54,000; the family is required to pay only ₹2,700.
2 kW Solar System – It has a fixed cost of ₹1,07,200; the family is required to pay ₹5,360.

Who will pay the remaining amount?

The key question is: who will cover the rest of the cost? The remaining cost of the solar panel system will be covered by subsidies provided by the Central government and the Gujarat state government. However, ensure you are aware of the terms and conditions associated with availing this benefit.

What documents are required?

Electricity bill
Aadhaar card
Bank passbook
Mobile number

Note: Additional documents may be required; you can check the specific requirements on the official portal before applying. Now, the question arises: where and how should one apply to avail of this benefit?

How to apply?

First, visit the 'PM Surya Ghar' portal and enter your state, electricity provider, and consumer number.
An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number; enter it to proceed.
Fill in all the required information and submit your application.
You will then need to wait for technical approval from your electricity provider.
Once approved, have the solar system installed by a vendor listed on the portal, in accordance with the prescribed guidelines.
After installation, apply for a net meter.
Once you receive the commissioning certificate, submit your bank account details.
The eligible central subsidy will then be credited directly to your bank account.