Varanasi: Uttar Pradesh has emerged as a frontrunner in rooftop solar installations under the Pradhanmantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, with Varanasi securing the 10th position nationwide. Lucknow tops the national list. The city is forging a new identity in green energy by surpassing several major metros in rooftop solar panel installations. A total of 39,018 rooftop solar plants have been installed in Varanasi so far.
Progress and Achievements
Chief Development Officer Prakhar Kumar Singh stated that out of 62,964 applications received under the scheme, approximately 39,018 installations have been completed, including those under related schemes. The district has achieved an installed capacity of about 1,32,096.31 KW, placing Varanasi among the leading districts in the state for green energy. Varanasi has consistently ranked second in the state after Lucknow for several months.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is emerging as a powerful tool for development, savings, employment, and environmental conservation in Varanasi. The far-sighted policies of the Modi-Yogi state government have effectively implemented this scheme, making it a successful public welfare initiative. UPNEDA Senior Project Officer Shashi Gupta revealed that a subsidy of Rs 251.49 crore has been distributed to approximately 33,332 consumers so far. With solar panels on rooftops, electricity bills have reduced significantly, and many families are enjoying nearly free electricity.
Solar plants in Varanasi generate approximately 6,60,482 units of electricity daily, resulting in daily savings of about Rs 39.6 lakh. This translates to annual savings of approximately Rs 144.65 crore. Beyond economic gains, the scheme contributes to environmental conservation by reducing carbon dioxide emissions by an estimated 1.58 lakh metric tonnes annually, helping make Varanasi a clean, green, and pollution-free city. Additionally, the scheme has conserved approximately 660 acres of agricultural land by reducing the need for additional land for energy production, thus preserving farmers' land.
Employment Generation
The scheme has also created new employment opportunities. A total of 310 vendors are active in the district, providing direct employment to approximately 30,000 people and indirect employment to 3 lakh people. Thousands of youth have found jobs in solar equipment manufacturing, installation, maintenance, transportation, and technical services.
