Patna: Households in Bihar can reduce their dependence on grid electricity by installing rooftop solar systems under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
Eligible domestic consumers can receive financial assistance from the Central and Bihar governments. The combined assistance can go up to Rs 98,000, depending on the capacity of the solar system and applicable scheme rules.
Applicants must register through the official PM Surya Ghar portal and complete the required verification and installation process.
How To Apply Online
Consumers can register through the official portal, pmsuryaghar.gov.in.
Applicants need to provide details related to their electricity connection, mobile number, bank account and identity. A valid bank account is required for subsidy disbursement.
Before starting the application, consumers should keep their electricity bill, consumer number, bank details and identity documents readily available.
Information about the rooftop or location where the solar system will be installed may also be required.
What Happens After Application?
After submission of the online application, the process proceeds according to the prescribed scheme procedure.
The installation site is inspected as required, following which the consumer can select an authorised vendor. The rooftop solar system is then installed by the selected vendor.
After installation, the net-metering process is completed before the subsidy is processed in accordance with the applicable rules.
How Much Assistance Is Available?
The assistance varies according to the capacity of the rooftop solar system.
- 1 kW system: Up to Rs 30,000 from the Centre and up to Rs 10,000 from the Bihar government.
- 2 kW system: Up to Rs 60,000 from the Centre and up to Rs 20,000 from the state government.
- 3 kW or higher: Up to Rs 78,000 from the Centre and up to Rs 20,000 from the Bihar government.
This means the combined maximum assistance can reach Rs 98,000 for eligible consumers.
The maximum amount is not automatically available to every applicant. The actual assistance depends on the system capacity, eligibility and the rules applicable at the time of application.
Consumers should verify the latest subsidy provisions and eligibility requirements on the official portal or with the relevant electricity distribution office before applying.
How Can Solar Panels Reduce Electricity Bills?
The amount saved on electricity bills depends on household consumption, the capacity of the solar system and the amount of sunlight available.
In an on-grid system, electricity generated during the day is first used by the household. If generation exceeds consumption, the surplus electricity can be supplied to the grid.
When solar generation is insufficient, electricity can be drawn from the grid.
What Is Net Metering?
Net metering records the electricity supplied to and drawn from the grid.
Under an on-grid rooftop solar arrangement, the existing electricity connection remains active. Solar power is used for household requirements, while excess generation can be exported to the grid.
The net-metering mechanism accounts for the electricity generated and consumed or supplied to the grid, according to the applicable regulations.
Does Solar Power Work At Night?
A standard on-grid rooftop solar system does not generate electricity at night because solar panels require sunlight.
During nighttime, the household continues to draw electricity from the grid. A solar system with battery storage works differently because stored energy can be used when solar generation is unavailable.
Which Solar Capacity Should You Choose?
The appropriate capacity depends on the household’s electricity consumption.
A 1 kW system may be suitable for homes with relatively low consumption, while households with moderate consumption may consider a 2 kW system.
Families with higher electricity requirements may consider systems of 3 kW or more, subject to their rooftop space, consumption and eligibility.
Documents And Details To Keep Ready
Applicants should generally keep the following information available:
- Electricity bill and consumer number
- Electricity connection details
- Mobile number
- Bank account or passbook details
- Identity-related documents
- Details of the rooftop or proposed installation site
Additional documents or information may be required during verification, depending on the applicable procedure.
Points To Check Before Applying
Consumers should apply only through the official PM Surya Ghar portal and carefully verify their electricity connection and bank details before submitting the application.
They should also check the latest subsidy rates, eligibility conditions and installation requirements before proceeding, as scheme provisions may change.
A correctly completed application and accurate bank information can help avoid delays in subsidy processing.
