Nagpur: Maharashtra has emerged as the top-performing state under the PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme, contributing 4,700 of the record 15,000 rooftop solar systems installed across India on May 29. This accounts for approximately 31.3% of the total installations, the highest among all states.
MSEDCL's Role and State Leadership
The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL), responsible for implementing the scheme in the state, attributed the success to the guidance of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The scheme aims to help households reduce their electricity bills through rooftop solar generation.
National Recognition
Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, praised Maharashtra for crossing the milestone of six lakh rooftop solar installations. Under the scheme, residential consumers receive subsidies of Rs 30,000 for 1 kW, Rs 60,000 for 2 kW, and Rs 78,000 for 3 kW rooftop solar systems.
Key Achievements in May Campaign
During the nationwide campaign in May, Maharashtra ranked first in applications received, first in project inspections, second in rooftop solar installations, and second in vendor registrations. The state received 4.49 lakh applications, the highest in India, and completed 54,000 installations, second only to Uttar Pradesh. It also conducted 69,000 inspections, the highest nationally, and had 413 registered vendors, the second-highest count.
Vendor and Consumer Participation
Registered vendors undertake rooftop solar installations, while consumers are free to choose contractors from the approved list. Officials noted that the strong performance reflects growing public participation and increasing adoption of rooftop solar energy across Maharashtra.
