- Clarification on Free Electricity Promise: Odisha Deputy CM clarifies that there are no current plans to provide 300 units of free electricity as promised during elections.
- PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana: Highlights the central and state government subsidies for rooftop solar panel installations to reduce electricity costs.
- Scheme Adoption: Over 97,000 people have applied for PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, with installations completed in over 3,000 households.
Odisha Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo addressed concerns regarding the provision of free electricity in Odisha, clarifying that the state government currently has no plans to provide 300 units of free electricity to consumers. This statement was made in response to questions raised by BJD legislator Sarada Prasad Nayak in the Assembly.
Odisha Govt Focuses on Solar Energy with PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana
Amidst allegations from opposition parties about unfulfilled election promises, the Deputy CM, who also oversees the Energy portfolio, emphasized an alternative approach for reducing electricity costs for domestic consumers. According to him, residents can take advantage of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana by installing rooftop solar panels.
Incentives and Subsidies for Solar Panel Installation
Under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, both the central and state governments are offering substantial subsidies to encourage the adoption of solar energy. The central government provides a subsidy of ₹78,000, while the Odisha state government contributes ₹60,000 for installing solar plants up to 3 KW on rooftops. By utilizing this scheme, consumers can generate approximately 300 units of solar power per month, effectively offsetting their electricity consumption.
Budget Allocation and Scheme Progress
The Odisha government has allocated a budget of ₹1,800 crore for implementing the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana over three financial years, from 2024-25 to 2026-27. As of now, 97,128 people have applied for the scheme, with solar projects already installed on the rooftops of 3,124 households.
Benefits of Adopting Solar Power
KV Singh Deo highlighted that the adoption of solar power under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana would help mitigate load shedding and address the power crisis in the state. By generating their own electricity, consumers can reduce their dependence on the grid and contribute to a more sustainable energy future.
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana – Key Highlights
| Scheme Name | PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana |
| Central Government Subsidy | ₹78,000 |
| State Government Subsidy | ₹60,000 |
| Budget Allocation | ₹1,800 crore |
| Scheme Duration | 2024-25 to 2026-27 |
| Total Applications Received | 97,128 |
| Households with Installed Solar Projects | 3,124 |