MNRE Releases Guidelines for 'Innovative Projects' under PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) unveils guidelines for the 'Innovative Projects' component of the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, driving rooftop solar adoption through technological innovation and startup collaboration across India.
October 09, 2024. By EI News Network
The guidelines are intended to drive technological innovation and create new business models within the rooftop solar industry. With an ambitious financial outlay of INR 75,021 crore, the scheme targets the installation of rooftop solar systems in one crore households by FY 2026-27. The 'Innovative Projects' component plays a crucial role in this mission by encouraging technological advancements and the development of novel solutions for solar generation, integration, and management in the residential sector.
Innovative projects under the PM-Surya Ghar scheme include a variety of cutting-edge solutions aimed at expanding rooftop solar (RTS) deployment across different segments. These projects feature blockchain-based peer-to-peer RTS systems for decentralized energy trading, digital solutions to streamline rooftop solar management, and smart building materials integrated with RTS.
Additionally, the initiative includes RTS with Electric Vehicles (EVs) for energy storage and vehicle charging, as well as grid-responsive RTS with battery storage for improved energy efficiency. Other innovations include DISCOM IT systems for managing solar energy distribution, and business models such as Virtual Net Metering, Group Net Metering, and Behind-the-Meter Storage, which offer new ways to enhance solar adoption.
Further, the scheme promotes models like Rent-A-Roof, allowing third-party ownership of solar installations, and peer-to-peer electricity sales, enabling direct energy transactions between consumers. These projects collectively aim to revolutionise the rooftop solar sector with creative financing products and new market models.
With a dedicated budget of INR 500 crore, the scheme will provide financial assistance for projects that explore next-generation technologies like grid-responsive rooftop solar systems with battery storage, Virtual Net Metering, and Group Net Metering models. Financial aid will cover up to 60 percent of the total project cost, with a maximum limit of INR 30 crore per project, although additional funding may be available for exceptionally innovative proposals.
The initiative is open to startups, academic institutions, and research organizations, with international collaboration encouraged for joint research efforts. Applications will be accepted via the National Portal for PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, and outreach campaigns will be conducted to boost participation.
A Screening Committee will evaluate projects based on their innovation, feasibility, and potential societal impact. Once approved, projects will receive phased financial support, with an initial release of up to 50 percent of the funds based on equipment needs. The National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) will oversee the scheme's implementation and conduct regular progress reviews to ensure projects are on track.
To further incentivise innovation, the scheme will offer annual awards for the most impactful projects, with prizes ranging from INR 100 lakh for the top entry to INR 5 lakh for consolation prizes.
The PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana and its 'Innovative Projects' component represent a major step forward in India’s push to expand rooftop solar energy and promote clean energy adoption, positioning the country as a leader in renewable energy innovation.
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