Patna: The Bihar government has started preparations to install solar units in 1 million homes belonging to ‘Kutir Jyoti’ consumers across the state, with Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary directing officials to accelerate the implementation process.
The directive was issued during a review meeting of the Energy Department held on Monday at ‘Sankalp’ in 1 Aney Marg. The chief minister said the initiative was aimed at encouraging households to become more self-reliant in energy consumption through the use of solar power.
He noted that the state government is already providing up to 125 units of free electricity every month to domestic consumers and said solar adoption would further reduce dependence on conventional electricity sources.
Push for Rooftop Solar Adoption
During the meeting, the chief minister asked officials to actively encourage households to install solar panels on rooftops. He said the move would support the transition towards clean and green energy while helping consumers manage electricity costs.
He also directed officials to ensure regular monitoring and maintenance of locations where solar panels have already been installed to maintain operational efficiency.
Officials were further instructed to involve ‘Jeevika Didis’ — members of women’s self-help groups in rural areas — in facilitating the installation of solar plants and spreading awareness about the benefits of solar energy.
The chief minister emphasised the need for awareness campaigns in villages to explain the functioning, benefits and long-term savings associated with solar power systems.
Focus on Rural and Agricultural Use
The state government also reviewed progress under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and directed officials to bring more households under the scheme’s coverage.
The meeting additionally focused on the solarisation of agricultural feeders and expanding the use of solar energy in farming activities. Officials were asked to speed up related projects to support rural electricity infrastructure and reduce energy costs in the agriculture sector.
Department Reviews Ongoing Schemes
Ajay Yadav, secretary of the Energy Department, presented details of ongoing schemes and implementation plans during the meeting. The presentation included updates on the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, solarisation plans for Below Poverty Line consumers and incentive schemes for Jeevika Didis.
Energy Minister Shailesh Kumar was also present at the meeting.
