In a significant move towards energy self-reliance, PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated the PM Suryoday Yojana. This initiative is primarily aimed at cutting down the electricity expenses for the country’s BPL populace. Additionally, it mandates a countrywide effort to persuade residential consumers to install solar panels. The scheme introduces rooftop solar photovoltaic panels that connect to the main electricity supply, reducing the reliance on and cost of grid-connected electricity. This initiative, targeting energy independence, is designed to benefit BPL and low-income families with minimal investment.
Overview of the Pradhan Mantri Suryoday Yojana Rules & Eligibility
● Applicants must be Indian citizens to qualify.
● Annual income of the applicant should range from Rs. 1 to 1.5 lakh.
● All required original documents must be presented by applicants.
● Employees of Government departments are ineligible for this scheme’s benefits.
Key Advantages of the PM Suryoday Yojana
● Over one crore families will receive home solar panels.
● The scheme is mainly aimed at assisting middle-class and BPL families.
● Beneficiaries will be able to illuminate their homes and eliminate their monthly electricity costs.
● This scheme guarantees a 24-hour power supply.
● It provides a lasting resolution to electricity issues for eligible families through the Pradhanmantri Suryoday Yojana.
Application Procedure
Follow these steps to apply for the Pradhanmantri Suryoday Yojana:
● Visit the official PM Suryoday Yojana website.
● Search for Pradhanmantri Suryoday Yojana 2024.
● Click on the online application link.
● Fill in the application form with your details such as Name, Address, Aadhar Number, Mobile Number, etc.
● Upload the necessary documents as prompted.
● Click the submit button.
● A confirmation message will appear, indicating successful registration.
● Note down your application ID for future reference.
Necessary Documents
Applicants need to provide several documents, including:
● Aadhar Card
● Electricity Bill
● Bank Passbook
● Income Certificate
● Domicile Certificate
● Mobile Number
● Passport Size Photo
● Ration Card.
Fast Facts about the Pradhan Mantri Suryoday Scheme 2024
● Scheme Name – Pradhanmantri Suryoday Yojana 2024
● Initiator – Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi
● Registration Method – Online
● Launch Date – 22 January 2024
● Start Date for Applications – to be announced
● Beneficiaries – BPL and all low-income citizens
● Goal – To reduce the electricity bill costs for poor/BPL citizens and promote energy self-reliance.
● Official Website – Coming soon.
Current Overview of Solar Energy in India
The socio-economic benefits of solar energy encompass:
● Alleviation of the burden on rural women and girls in collecting fuel wood and cooking in smoke-filled environments
● Reduced risk of lung and eye diseases
● Creation of village-level jobs
● Enhanced living standards and economic opportunities.
India has seen significant growth in solar energy, especially in grid-connected electricity generation, aiding the government in achieving sustainable development, fulfilling energy requirements, and ensuring energy security.
The National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) notes that solar PV modules can utilize 3% of wasteland, estimating a 748 GW solar potential. The National Solar Mission (NSM), launched on January 11, 2010, is a critical initiative with State support aimed at promoting ecologically sustainable growth and addressing energy security issues in India.
India’s commitment to global climate change mitigation efforts is reinforced by the Mission, which accelerates the adoption of solar technology, positioning India as a leader in solar energy. This aligns with India’s NDCs goal to achieve 50% cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuels and reduce GDP emission intensity by 45% from 2005 levels by 2030.
Quick Insights
● India ranks as the 3rd largest global electricity producer.
● The total installed capacity stands at 356 GW.
● About 64% of this capacity is derived from thermal energy, with 54.60% from coal, 7% from gas, and 0.2% from diesel.
● Nuclear power contributes 2%, large hydro 13%, and renewables (wind, solar, biomass, waste-to-energy) 21.8%.
Concluding Insights
With energy consumption in India projected to quadruple to 11% by 2040, ensuring energy security and self-sufficiency without increasing environmental costs is critical. Rising electricity demand may lead to increased reliance on coal, oil, and natural gas, which could impact the economy and environment negatively. Expanding solar power usage can secure India’s energy needs amidst growing demand.
Furthermore, as water security becomes a pressing issue, with a 61% decrease in groundwater levels from 2007 to 2017 and reduced annual rainfall since 2012, transitioning to non-water-dependent energy sources like solar power becomes imperative. The Pradhan Mantri Suryoday Scheme 2024 is set to significantly contribute to India’s pursuit of energy independence.
