MNRE Releases Operational Guidelines for Model Solar Village under PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has taken a significant step toward promoting sustainable energy solutions in India by releasing operational guidelines for the model solar village component under the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. The initiative is set to revolutionize how rural India accesses and utilizes energy by transforming one village per district into a model solar village. This ambitious plan aims to bolster the adoption of solar rooftops, drive clean energy access, and foster self-sufficiency within village communities.
Objectives of the Model Solar Village Scheme
The scheme is designed to achieve several key objectives, which include:
- Solarization of Villages: The goal is to solarize one village per district across India. This will serve as a catalyst to encourage widespread adoption of solar rooftops nationwide.
- Access to Clean Energy: The scheme aims to facilitate and promote clean, sustainable energy access in rural areas, reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.
- Empowering Communities: By generating electricity locally, villages can become more self-sufficient in meeting their energy requirements, significantly reducing energy costs.
- Fully Solar-Powered Villages: The scheme envisions villages where all households and public spaces are powered entirely by solar energy.
- Technological Promotion: The use of solar-powered technologies, such as home lighting systems, solar water systems, solar pumps for agriculture, and solar streetlights, will be promoted throughout the village infrastructure.
Implementation and Funding
The implementation of this scheme will be managed by state renewable energy development agencies or other agencies nominated by state governments. With a total budget outlay of Rs 750.21 billion, the model solar village component is allocated Rs 8 billion. Each model village will receive Rs 10 million as central financial assistance.
Key Implementation Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Budget Outlay | Rs 750.21 billion (total scheme), Rs 8 billion (model solar village component) |
| Financial Assistance | Rs 10 million per model village |
| Implementing Agencies | State renewable energy development agencies or state-nominated agencies |
| Coverage | One model solar village per district |
Benefits of the Model Solar Village Scheme
The model solar village scheme is expected to bring numerous benefits to rural communities, including:
- Reduced Energy Costs: By generating their own electricity, villages can significantly reduce their energy expenses.
- Environmental Benefits: The transition to solar power will help reduce carbon emissions and promote environmental sustainability.
- Economic Opportunities: The installation and maintenance of solar infrastructure can create jobs and boost local economies.
- Improved Quality of Life: Reliable and sustainable energy access can improve living standards, with better lighting, communication, and access to technology.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana?
The PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is a government initiative aimed at promoting the installation of solar panels on residential rooftops across India, providing clean and affordable electricity to households.
2. What is a model solar village?
A model solar village is a community where all households and public spaces are powered entirely by solar energy, serving as a prototype for sustainable energy solutions in rural areas.
3. How is the scheme funded?
The scheme is funded by the central government, with a total budget of Rs 750.21 billion, of which Rs 8 billion is allocated specifically for the model solar village component.
4. Who will implement the scheme?
The scheme will be implemented by state renewable energy development agencies or other agencies nominated by the state government.
5. What are the expected benefits for the villages?
The benefits include reduced energy costs, environmental sustainability, job creation, and improved quality of life through reliable energy access.
Conclusion
The MNRE’s release of operational guidelines for the model solar village under the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana marks a pivotal moment in India’s journey toward sustainable energy solutions. By empowering rural communities with solar power, the scheme not only promises economic and environmental benefits but also paves the way for a cleaner, more self-sufficient future. As each district embraces this model, the vision of a solar-powered India becomes more tangible, driving the nation toward a brighter, greener tomorrow.
Dhruv Sharma is a dedicated content creator and the author behind Yojana World. With a passion for empowering individuals through information, Dhruv specializes in writing about government schemes and services in India.