Representational Image (Image credit: AP)
NEW DELHI: To accelerate adoption of renewable energy among low-income and vulnerable households, govt has approved installation of over 13 lakh rooftop solar systems under the utility-led aggregation (ULA) model across 10 states/Union territories (UTs).The push is part of Centre’s broader focus on expanding solar energy capacity as a cleaner and greener alternative to fossil fuel-based power generation.Officials said Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Telangana and Union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu have already commenced installations, while Bihar, Kerala, Jammu and Kashmir, Tripura, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Delhi have sent proposals to Centre.Ministry of new and renewable energy (MNRE) has set a target of installing one crore rooftop solar systems across the country by March 2027 under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, of which 30 lakh will be set up under ULA model.Under PM Surya Ghar scheme, more than 60% of rooftop installations are in 3-4 kW category, highlighting lower participation from poorer households with less electricity demand. Officials said the ULA model seeks to bridge this gap through utility-led deployment, enabling scale and financing support.More than 31 lakh rooftop solar systems with total capacity of 11.4 GW have so far been installed under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
