Collector S. Kandasamy (centre) interacting with a beneficiary about the rooftop solar system at N.G.G.O. Colony in Erode, Tamil Nadu, on Wednesday.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Collector S. Kandasamy on Wednesday (July 23, 2025) visited the residence of a beneficiary in N.G.G.O. Colony in the city to review the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, a rooftop solar electricity scheme implemented through the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL).During the visit, the Collector interacted with the beneficiary, Sadhana, and discussed the benefits of the scheme. A 3-kW solar panel system had been installed on her rooftop under the scheme, which aims to provide free electricity to households through solar energy.Ms. Sadhana said she had installed the 3 kW solar power system at a cost of ₹2 lakh and received a government subsidy of ₹78,000 within a week. She noted that her electricity bill had dropped to just ₹300 for two months, compared to ₹1,500–1,800 earlier.A TNPDCL official said the scheme, launched in the State on February 29, 2024, promotes clean and sustainable energy while helping households cut down on electricity expenses. Under the scheme, subsidies are provided by both the Central and State governments: ₹30,000 for 1 kW, ₹60,000 for 2 kW, and ₹78,000 for 3 kW and above. The subsidy is credited directly to the beneficiary’s bank account within a week of installation and commissioning.The official added that a 1 kW system can generate four to five units of electricity per day, potentially reducing 250–300 units from a bi-monthly bill. The solar panels have an average lifespan of 27 years and require minimal maintenance.Residents interested in availing the scheme can apply online at www.pmsuryaghar.gov.in with a recent photograph, electricity bill, and bank account details. For assistance, applicants in Erode and Gobichettipalayam regions can contact 94458 52150 and 94458 52030, respectively. Published - July 24, 2025 07:30 pm IST
