Under the Central Government’s highly ambitious and far-reaching flagship initiative, the ‘PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana’, Nagpur district has achieved a historic milestone. Championing the nationwide movement for clean and affordable energy, Nagpur has once again taken the lead, cementing a prominent position on the state’s solar energy map. A impressive total of 1,01,815 consumers in Nagpur district have successfully installed rooftop solar power projects, actively contributing to this green energy revolution. According to data across MSEDCL’s (Mahavitaran) jurisdiction in the state, out of 7,10,124 commissioned rooftop solar units statewide, Nagpur district alone accounts for a substantial 14.33 per cent. Out of Maharashtra’s total installed solar capacity of 2,690.26 MW, Nagpur contributes 391.51 MW - representing a solid 14.55 per cent share.

 

With this stellar performance, Nagpur district indisputably leads Maharashtra’s solar energy chart. Interestingly, Nagpur city circle played a pioneering role, where 84,347 consumers embraced solar power, generating an installed capacity of 328.8 MW. On the other hand, Nagpur rural circle showed an enthusiastic response with 17,468 consumers setting up rooftop systems, adding 64.61 MW to the grid. Under the scheme, the Central Government provides direct subsidies straight to consumers’ bank accounts. The initial capital investment for a solar unit is recovered within 3 to 4 years through reduced electricity bills. For the subsequent 20 to 25 years, consumers enjoy free or virtually low-cost electricity, permanently alleviating the financial burden of soaring utility bills.

 

As per the MSEDCL data, out of 1,01,815 solar consumers, 1,01,516 qualified for total subsidies worth Rs 760.85 crore. Till date, Rs 729.88 crore has already been directly deposited into the bank accounts of 93,651 consumers, driving immense public enthusiasm. The implementation of the ‘Net Metering’ system offers dual advantages. Any surplus electricity generated beyond a household’s usage is transferred back to MSEDCL via the grid. The value of this exported power is either credited toward future monthly bills or compensated financially. Consequently, everyday citizens have transitioned from traditional power consumers into empowered power generators.