Lives Illuminated by Solar Power: PM Surya Ghar Yojana Sparks a Renewable Energy Revolution in Chhattisgarh

Raipur : The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar – Muft Bijli Yojana is transforming lives in Chhattisgarh by ushering in a new era of clean, free, and sustainable electricity. This flagship scheme of the central and state governments has not only reduced electricity bills to zero for many households but has also brought significant positive changes to their everyday lives. People are now free from the burden of monthly power bills and are actively contributing to environmental conservation.

In Mahasamund district, officials reported that 142 rooftop solar connections have been successfully installed so far under the scheme.

One such beneficiary is Mr. Laxmikant Panigrahi, a retired bank manager and resident of Kaushik Colony in Mahasamund. He installed a 6-kilowatt rooftop solar plant on his house, which cost him around ₹3.15 lakh. Of this amount, he received a subsidy of ₹78,000 from the central and state governments. “Earlier, I used to pay electricity bills of up to ₹6,000 per month in normal months and around ₹12,000 during summer,” he said. “Now my electricity bill is zero. This scheme not only saves money but also helps protect the environment.”

Similarly, Mrs. Jyoti Vishwash, a teacher and resident of the Housing Board area, installed a 3-kilowatt solar panel on her rooftop. She shared, “Within just 15 days of installation, my electricity bill became zero. Earlier, I used to pay up to ₹3,000 every month. Now I don’t have to worry about the bill, and I enjoy 24×7 uninterrupted power supply.” She added that the system also gives her peace of mind during the monsoon season when power outages are common.

According to the Executive Engineer of the Electricity Department, 142 families in Mahasamund are not only saving energy but also significantly improving their quality of life. He stated that registration for the scheme is ongoing, and solar systems are connected to the electricity grid. If users generate more electricity than needed, the excess power is fed back into the grid, allowing them to earn additional income.

The government offers ₹30,000 subsidy for 1 kW, ₹60,000 for 2 kW, and up to ₹78,000 for systems above 3 kW capacity. Beneficiaries typically receive the subsidy within 15 to 30 days of installation.

The scheme is not only reducing household expenses but is also promoting clean energy and energy independence, marking a major step towards a sustainable future in Chhattisgarh.