Maharashtra to Launch Swayampurna Rooftop Scheme Offering 25 Years of Free Electricity to BPL and EWS Households

The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) is set to implement the Swayampurna Maharashtra Residential Rooftop Scheme to provide free electricity for 25 years to households falling under the Below Poverty Line (BPL) and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) categories. Eligible consumers will only be required to pay a nominal initial charge for installation.

Background

The rooftop solar initiative is part of the state’s broader renewable energy push aimed at promoting sustainable power generation and reducing electricity costs for low-income families. It complements the Union government’s Pradhan Mantri Suryaghar Free Electricity Scheme, which encourages the adoption of rooftop solar systems across India.

Under the MSEDCL scheme, a one-kilowatt (kW) capacity solar power system will be installed on eligible residential units. The system will be connected directly to the electricity grid to ensure a stable and long-term supply of free power to beneficiaries.

Key Details and Subsidy Structure

An MSEDCL official said int the official communication, “The Union govt's Pradhan Mantri Suryaghar free electricity scheme offers a substantial subsidy of ₹30,000 for installing a one-kilowatt rooftop solar power project. Complementing this, state govt offers an additional grant of ₹10,000 for consumers from the general category and an increased amount of ₹15,000 specifically for those belonging to the SC and ST categories.”

The total cost of installing a one-kilowatt solar power system is estimated at ₹60,000. After applying central and state subsidies, beneficiaries will only need to contribute ₹10,000 or ₹15,000, depending on their eligibility category. Once installed, households will receive free electricity for 25 years.

Implementation and Eligibility

According to a communication from MSEDCL Chairman and Managing Director Lokesh Chandra, the rooftop solar power kits will be installed in residential units of eligible consumers with a monthly electricity consumption below 100 units.

“As the system is connected to the grid, these households will effectively receive electricity free of cost for the entire 25-year lifespan of the project. The eligible consumers will also qualify for significant subsidies provided by both the central and state governments, making the installation financially viable,” the communication stated.

Financial Allocation and Coverage

The Maharashtra government has allocated ₹655 crore for the implementation of the Swayampurna Maharashtra Residential Rooftop Scheme. The project aims to provide free electricity to five lakh households, 1.54 lakh from the BPL category and 3.45 lakh from the EWS category.

Implementation will follow a first-come, first-served basis. Officials noted that while rural households will face fewer challenges in installing rooftop systems, urban consumers might encounter constraints due to nearby buildings obstructing sunlight.

Read More: Maharashtra Government Sets November 18 Deadline for e-KYC Under 'Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin' Scheme.

Conclusion

The Swayampurna Maharashtra Residential Rooftop Scheme represents a significant step towards promoting renewable energy access for low-income families in Maharashtra. By combining state and central government subsidies, the initiative aims to make clean energy affordable while ensuring long-term energy security for millions of beneficiaries.

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