PM Surya Ghar Scheme: 100,000 Households Installing Solar Weekly

Union Renewable Energy Secretary Santosh Kumar Sarangi announced that approximately 100,000 households are now installing rooftop solar systems every week under the Centre's flagship PM Surya Ghar Yojana scheme. This represents significant acceleration in residential solar adoption and renewable energy deployment across India.

Background: The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana was launched to promote rooftop solar installations in residential buildings with subsidies covering 40-60% of installation costs for lower income groups. The scheme targets 1 crore household solar installations by 2027, supporting India's 500 GW renewable energy target by 2030 and net-zero commitments under climate change frameworks.

Key Facts: (1) 100,000 installations per week current pace; (2) Target: 1 crore households by 2027; (3) Subsidies: 40-60% cost coverage for eligible beneficiaries; (4) Supports India's 500 GW renewable energy goal; (5) Reduces electricity bills and household energy costs; (6) Aligns with Paris Climate Agreement commitments.

Why It Matters: Decentralizes electricity generation reducing transmission losses, improves household energy independence, reduces carbon emissions, lowers electricity costs for beneficiaries, attracts investment in solar manufacturing, and creates employment in installation and maintenance sectors.

Exam Angle: Prelims on renewable energy policy, climate change targets, and government schemes. Mains on 'Renewable Energy Transition and Household Energy Security in India' or climate change mitigation strategies. Likely connection to SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and India's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).