Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, currently on his Samriddhi Yatra, has been repeatedly emphasizing free electricity and free solar energy in his public addresses. The announcement that the state government will install solar panels on the rooftops of willing households has generated widespread interest. However, the key question remains: how will this scheme actually be implemented? Here is a detailed explanation.
Zero-Cost Electricity for Poor Families
Under the vision of “Solar-Energy Self-Reliant Bihar,” Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced a major initiative to promote rooftop solar power across the state. He has reiterated that solar panels will be installed free of cost for eligible families, especially targeting the poor and middle class.
The Chief Minister stated that after successfully ensuring electricity access to every household by 2018, the government’s focus has now shifted to clean energy and reducing the financial burden on consumers. During a public meeting in Siwan, he clarified that interested households will have solar panels installed on their rooftops, which could potentially reduce their monthly electricity bills to zero.
Subsidy Structure: Free for BPL, 50% for Others
According to the government’s plan, households below the poverty line (BPL), particularly beneficiaries of the Kutir Jyoti Yojana, will receive rooftop solar systems at zero cost. The Bihar government will bear the entire expense for installing a 1.5-kilowatt solar panel system in these homes.
For other households (APL category), the government will provide a subsidy of up to 50% on the installation cost. On average, installing a 1-kilowatt solar system costs between ₹45,000 and ₹80,000. Typically, a household requires around 2 kilowatts to meet its electricity needs.
In the first phase, the government plans to install fully government-funded solar panels on the rooftops of 2.5 lakh BPL families across the state.
Towards a Solar Self-Reliant Bihar
The state government believes that large-scale adoption of rooftop solar panels will reduce pressure on the power grid and ensure uninterrupted electricity supply in both rural and urban areas. The initiative is also expected to boost local employment and promote clean-energy technology in Bihar.
This scheme aligns with the earlier announcement of providing 125 units of free electricity ahead of the elections, reinforcing the government’s commitment to affordable and sustainable power.
How to Apply for Rooftop Solar Panels
Residents of Bihar can apply for rooftop solar installation and avail subsidies through the following channels:
- PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana Portal
- Visit: pmsuryaghar.gov.in
- Click on “Apply for Rooftop Solar”
- Select State: Bihar
- Choose your DISCOM: NBPDCL (North Bihar) or SBPDCL (South Bihar)
- Enter your Consumer/CA Number
- Complete the step-by-step application process
- DISCOM Portals (Solar Bihar)
- North Bihar (NBPDCL): solarbihar.bsphcl.co.in
- South Bihar (SBPDCL): solarbihar.bsphcl.co.in
(Both companies use the common “Solar Bihar” portal)
- For Government Institutions or Large Projects
- Bihar Renewable Energy Development Agency (BREDA): breda.co.in
Applicants are advised to keep essential documents ready while applying.
A Major Step Before Elections
With this ambitious solar initiative, the Nitish Kumar government aims to combine social welfare, environmental responsibility, and long-term economic relief for households. If implemented effectively, the scheme could transform Bihar into a leading example of rooftop solar adoption in India.
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