The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) organised an extensive public awareness campaign to disseminate information about various consumer-oriented and welfare schemes across the Amravati Circle. The awareness drive was conducted at more than 150 locations in Amravati and Yavatmal districts, including schools, marketplaces, crowded public places, Gram Sabhas, agricultural produce market committees and commercial complexes. MSEDCL officers and employees directly interacted with citizens and apprised them of the benefits of various schemes. The campaign was conducted under the guidance of

 

Dilip Dodke, Chief Engineer, and on the initiative of Deepak Devhate and Rupesh Tembhurne, both Superintendenting Engineers. Information was provided about the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, Self-Reliant Maharashtra Residential Rooftop Solar (SMART) Scheme, Magel Tyala Saur Krushipump Yojana and the Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana. Under the PM Surya Ghar scheme, domestic consumers can avail themselves of central financial assistance of up to Rs 78,000 for rooftop solar systems of up to 3 kw capacity. Under the SMART scheme, installation of a 1-kW rooftop solar system can help domestic consumers avail themselves of around 100 to 120 units of free electricity per month. The scheme provides substantial Government subsidy, helping consumers reduce their electricity bills. Consumers can also earn by selling surplus power generated by their rooftop solar systems to MSEDCL. During the campaign, officers explained the beneficiary contribution and subsidy structure under the SMART scheme. BPL beneficiaries will have to contribute only Rs 2,500, while they will receive Rs 30,000 as central subsidy and Rs 17,500 as State subsidy. The campaign also focused on the advantages of smart meters. Consumers can monitor their electricity consumption accurately in real time.