PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana: Achieve Zero Electricity Bills with Rooftop Solar Power

• Published
• By Anupam Nath

Rising electricity costs have become a major concern for households across India, especially in states like Bihar where monthly bills often strain family budgets. The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, launched by the Government of India in February 2024, offers a practical solution by promoting rooftop solar installations. This ambitious scheme aims to provide up to 300 units of free electricity per month to one crore households through subsidized solar systems. By harnessing solar energy, families can significantly reduce or even eliminate their electricity bills while contributing to a cleaner environment. In Bihar's Samastipur district, the scheme is already delivering impressive results, with several households enjoying zero bills for months.

Launch and Objectives of the Scheme

The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana was officially approved by the Union Cabinet and rolled out nationwide in early 2024 under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. Its primary goal is to make solar energy accessible and affordable for residential users, particularly middle- and lower-income families. The scheme replaces earlier rooftop solar programs and focuses on empowering homes to generate their own electricity. Key objectives include reducing dependence on conventional power grids, lowering carbon emissions, creating employment in the renewable sector, and achieving energy self-sufficiency at the household level. With a massive budget allocation of over ₹75,000 crore, the initiative targets installing rooftop solar systems in one crore homes by the end of its tenure, running through 2026-27.

Success Story from Samastipur, Bihar

In Bihar's Samastipur district, the scheme has sparked tremendous enthusiasm. Over 5,000 people have applied so far, and more than 500 homes now have solar panels installed. Notably, 15 consumers recently received zero electricity bills for several consecutive months after adopting the system. These beneficiaries were honored with certificates at a special event held at Patel Maidan, organized to raise awareness and encourage more applications. The district administration, led by officials like the District Magistrate, has actively promoted the program through fairs where solar companies, banks, and electricity department representatives provide on-the-spot guidance. Such events highlight how the scheme is transforming lives in rural and semi-urban areas, proving that solar power is not just eco-friendly but also economically viable.

How Zero Electricity Bills Become Possible

The magic behind zero bills lies in the smart integration of solar generation with the existing grid via net metering. During the day, rooftop panels produce electricity that powers household appliances like lights, fans, refrigerators, and TVs. Any surplus energy is fed back into the grid, earning credits on the consumer's account. At night or during low sunlight periods, households draw from the grid, but the credits offset consumption. For average users consuming up to 300 units monthly, a properly sized 3 kW system can cover most needs, often resulting in zero or near-zero bills. Beneficiaries in Samastipur report that daytime generation fully meets their requirements, with excess export balancing any evening usage. This net metering mechanism ensures long-term savings, sometimes up to ₹15,000 annually, while promoting sustainable energy use.

Subsidy Structure and Financial Benefits

The government provides generous Central Financial Assistance (CFA) directly transferred to beneficiaries' bank accounts after installation and inspection. The subsidy rates are structured as follows:

For systems up to 2 kW: ₹30,000 per kW (e.g., ₹60,000 for 2 kW)

For additional capacity from 2 kW to 3 kW: ₹18,000 per kW

Maximum subsidy capped at ₹78,000 for 3 kW or higher systems

This covers a significant portion (up to 60% for smaller systems and 40% for larger ones) of installation costs, making solar affordable. For example, a 3 kW system that might cost ₹1.5-2 lakh pre-subsidy becomes much cheaper after the ₹78,000 grant. Many banks offer loans at the fairs for those unable to pay upfront, with easy repayment from bill savings. As of late 2025, over 26 lakh households nationwide have benefited, with more than 7.7 lakh enjoying zero bills, demonstrating the scheme's nationwide impact.

Application Process Step by Step

Applying is simple and fully online through the official National Portal for Rooftop Solar. Here's how to get started:

Visit the official website (pmsuryaghar.gov.in) and register using your mobile number, email, and electricity consumer number.

Fill in details about your roof space, average monthly consumption, and preferred system size. The portal includes a benefits calculator to estimate savings.

Select from empanelled vendors (rated for quality and reliability) to get quotes and choose the best option.

After approval, the selected vendor installs the system, followed by inspection by the local DISCOM (electricity distribution company).

Once verified, the subsidy is credited directly to your bank account, usually within 15-30 days.

Required documents include Aadhaar, electricity bill, roof ownership proof, and bank details. The process is user-friendly, with support available at awareness camps.

Additional Advantages and Environmental Impact

Beyond financial relief, the scheme offers environmental benefits by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Households gain energy independence, protection from future tariff hikes, and potential income from surplus power sales. It also creates jobs for technicians, installers, and vendors in the growing solar sector. For Bihar residents facing frequent power issues, solar provides reliable daytime supply, especially useful for students, remote workers, and small businesses.

Conclusion

The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a game-changer for those tired of high electricity bills. Stories from Samastipur show real people achieving zero bills and financial freedom through rooftop solar. With substantial subsidies, easy online application, and long-term savings, there's no better time to switch to clean energy. If you're in Bihar or anywhere in India, visit the official portal today, apply, and take the first step toward free electricity and a brighter, greener future. Embrace solar—it's not just power; it's empowerment.