PRADHAN MANTRI SURYODAYA YOJANA
1. Context
People availing of the government’s newly-announced rooftop solar scheme will be entitled to 300 units of free electricity every month and help them save up to Rs 18,000 annually
2.What is the Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana?
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the 'Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana' on January 22, following his participation in the consecration of the new Ram temple in Ayodhya. During the announcement, Modi outlined plans to install rooftop solar systems in "one crore houses," although he did not specify a timeline for achieving this target.
- While comprehensive details of the scheme were not immediately available, Finance Minister Sitharaman, in her Budget speech, highlighted its potential to generate significant savings for participating households, ranging from Rs 15,000 to Rs 18,000 annually. This would be accomplished through the provision of free solar electricity and the opportunity to sell surplus power to distribution companies.
- Sitharaman also emphasized the positive impact of the scheme on the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), as it would facilitate the installation of charging stations at home. Additionally, the 'Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana' was anticipated to stimulate entrepreneurship and create employment opportunities in the areas of supplies, installation, and maintenance.
- It's worth noting that the new scheme builds upon an existing rooftop solarization program that has been ongoing for at least a decade. The government had initially aimed to achieve 40 gigawatts (GW), or 40 percent, of its 100 GW solar capacity target by 2022 through rooftop systems. However, as of the end of 2023, the country's total solar capacity reached 73.3 GW, with grid-connected rooftop systems constituting only approximately 11 GW, or 15 percent of the total capacity
3.Rooftop Solar Scheme
The Rooftop Solar Scheme, officially known as the Surya Mitra program, is an initiative launched by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) of the Government of India to promote the installation of rooftop solar power systems across the country. It aims to make India more energy-independent, reduce electricity bills, and create a sustainable energy future.
Key features of the Rooftop Solar Scheme:
- Financial assistance: The scheme provides financial assistance in the form of subsidies and loans to make rooftop solar more affordable. The subsidy amount depends on the capacity of the system and the location. For example, in India, the subsidy for residential systems can be up to 40% of the system cost, with a maximum cap of ₹40,000
- Net metering: Net metering allows consumers to sell their excess solar energy back to the grid, earning credits that can be used to offset their electricity bills. This makes rooftop solar even more attractive, as it can generate income in addition to saving on electricity costs.
- Simplified process: The application process for the Rooftop Solar Scheme has been simplified to make it easier for people to participate. Applications can now be submitted online through the National Portal for Rooftop Solar.
- Wide range of benefits: Rooftop solar offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- Reduced electricity bills: By generating their own electricity, consumers can significantly reduce their dependence on the grid, leading to lower electricity bills.
- Increased energy independence: Rooftop solar helps to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and imported energy, making the country more energy independent.
- Environmental benefits: Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy, which helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.
- Job creation: The Rooftop Solar Scheme is expected to create a large number of jobs in the solar energy sector.
Eligibility for the Rooftop Solar Scheme:
The Rooftop Solar Scheme is open to a wide range of individuals and institutions, including:
- Residential households
- Industrial units
- Commercial establishments
- Government buildings
- Educational institutions
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What is India’s current solar capacity?
India had a total solar capacity of around 73.3 gigawatts (GW). The installed solar capacity was 73.32 GW.
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4.Why is an expansion of solar energy important for India?
The expansion of solar energy is considered crucial for India due to several reasons, encompassing environmental, economic, and social factors. Here are some key reasons why the growth of solar energy is important for India:
- Solar energy is a clean and renewable energy source that produces electricity without emitting harmful pollutants or greenhouse gases. Expanding solar capacity helps reduce India's reliance on fossil fuels, mitigating air pollution and contributing to efforts to combat climate change
- Diversifying the energy mix by incorporating solar power enhances energy security. India is heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels, and an increased reliance on indigenous solar resources helps reduce vulnerability to fluctuations in global energy markets.
- Solar energy contributes to mitigating the impacts of climate change by decreasing the carbon footprint associated with traditional energy sources. India has committed to reducing its carbon intensity and increasing the share of renewable energy in its total energy mix as part of its climate action efforts
- Solar energy is particularly beneficial for rural areas where grid connectivity is limited. Off-grid solar solutions, such as solar home systems and mini-grids, can provide electricity to remote regions, improving living standards and supporting economic development
- The solar industry has the potential to generate employment opportunities in various stages, including manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and research and development. This can contribute to India's economic growth and address unemployment challenges
- Over the years, the cost of solar technology has significantly decreased, making it more economically viable. The expansion of solar energy in India can lead to lower electricity costs, making it an attractive option for consumers and businesses.
- India has ambitious goals to provide electricity access to all its citizens. Solar energy, especially decentralized solutions like rooftop solar, can play a crucial role in meeting this objective by providing power to remote and off-grid areas
- Investing in solar energy encourages research and development in renewable energy technologies. This fosters innovation, drives technological advancements, and positions India as a leader in the global clean energy transition
5.How this scheme can help in the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs)?
The integration of solar energy schemes, such as the 'Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana,' can play a significant role in promoting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in several ways:
- Solar schemes often include provisions for the installation of solar-powered charging stations. By having solar-based charging infrastructure at home or in public spaces, EV users can access clean and renewable energy for charging their vehicles. This addresses one of the concerns associated with EV adoption – the availability of convenient and sustainable charging options
- Solar energy generated through rooftop installations can be used to charge electric vehicles, leading to cost savings for EV owners. By utilizing the free energy generated from the sun, EV users may experience reduced charging costs, making electric vehicles more economically attractive.
- Governments may introduce incentives or subsidies for individuals who integrate solar power with their EV charging infrastructure. These incentives can include tax benefits, rebates, or other financial rewards, encouraging more people to adopt both solar energy and electric vehicles
- Solar energy systems, when combined with EV charging, can help manage grid loads more efficiently. Charging EVs during daylight hours when solar production is at its peak can offset the demand on the grid and contribute to a more balanced and sustainable energy distribution system
- Both electric vehicles and solar energy contribute to environmental sustainability. The combined use of solar power and EVs creates a synergistic effect, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a cleaner and more sustainable transportation ecosystem
- By combining solar energy for both residential power needs and EV charging, individuals can achieve a higher level of energy independence. This aligns with the broader goal of reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and fostering a more decentralized and resilient energy system
- The integration of solar energy and electric vehicles aligns with the broader trend toward sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyles. It encourages individuals to make environmentally conscious choices, contributing to the overall shift toward a low-carbon and sustainable future
- The introduction of such schemes raises public awareness about the interconnected benefits of renewable energy and electric vehicles. This can influence consumer attitudes, making them more open to adopting both solar power and electric vehicles as part of a holistic approach to sustainable living
6.Way forward
The integration of solar energy schemes with EV adoption creates a symbiotic relationship that addresses charging infrastructure concerns, provides cost advantages, supports environmental sustainability, and contributes to a more comprehensive shift toward clean and renewable energy solution
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For Prelims: Economic and Social Development
For Mains: General Studies III: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
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Previous Year Questions
1.Consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2016)
1. The International Solar Alliance was launched at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2015.
2. The Alliance includes all the member countries of the United Nations.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 Only
B. 2 Only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer (A)
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Source: Indianexpress
