SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has once again urged domestic consumers to adopt Grid-connected Roof-Top Solar (RTS) plants under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Scheme, which was launched earlier this year by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. This heavily subsidised scheme aims to promote solar energy across the region.
KPDCL has also reminded consumers with long-standing power dues to take advantage of the Government’s Amnesty Scheme, which offers a waiver on late payment surcharges if the principal amount is paid in full or through instalments.
A KPDCL spokesperson provided an update on the scheme, revealing that 152 solar rooftops with a total installed capacity of 600.59 kW have already been set up across the Kashmir Valley, with Srinagar leading the way. “Over 1,000 consumers have selected empanelled Solar PV Vendors, and we are hopeful for a significant increase in RTS plant installations,” the spokesperson said.
The corporation has received 3,116 formal applications through the National Portal, and with the scheme gaining popularity, the number is expected to rise further. “A central subsidy for 119 beneficiaries has already been redeemed, with 46 consumers receiving the subsidy directly into their accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT),” the spokesperson added.
Under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, beneficiaries installing solar rooftops up to 3 kWp are eligible for a subsidy of Rs. 94,800, covering up to 60 per cent of the project cost, which is Rs. 1.59 lakh. Consumers become eligible for the subsidy once KPDCL’s technical teams issue inspection and commissioning reports, which are uploaded on the designated portal. Additionally, the Union Territory (UT) Government is providing an extra subsidy, raising the total possible subsidy for a 3 kWp plant to Rs. 94,800. The Government has sanctioned Rs. 27.07 crore for 44,000 beneficiaries in the Kashmir Division, which will be disbursed over the financial years 2025-26 and 2026-27, until 31 March 2027.
In addition to promoting solar energy, KPDCL highlighted the benefits of the UT Government’s Power Amnesty Scheme, which allows domestic consumers with significant electricity arrears to settle their outstanding balances. The scheme is set to expire on 31 March 2025. So far, 1.07 lakh beneficiaries have paid off Rs. 156.38 crore in principal amounts, with the Government waiving Rs. 56.00 crore in late payment surcharges.
The spokesperson urged the remaining 43,000 domestic consumers with large electricity arrears to approach their local Electric Subdivisions to benefit from the scheme before the deadline, stressing that no further extensions will be available after March 2025.
