India’s PM Surya Ghar scheme has now given a zero‑bill electricity connection to more than 21 lakh of the 65 lakh homes that have installed rooftop solar under the programme. This marks a major shift from regular power cuts and monthly bills to self‑reliant, clean energy for young Indian families.
Key Developments
- Over 21 lakh households now enjoy a zero‑bill electricity supply.
- Installed solar capacity has risen from 2.8 GW in 2014 to 171 GW in 2026, a growth of about 6007%.
- Solar power cost fell from roughly ₹8 per unit in 2014‑15 to as low as ₹2.15 per unit today.
- India achieved the non‑fossil fuel target of 50% of total capacity five years ahead of the 2030 deadline, becoming the only G20 nation to do so.
Important Facts
The surge in solar capacity is driven by a decade‑long push led by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The flagship PM‑KUSUM programme envisions 500 GW of installed capacity from non‑fossil fuel sources by 2030. The current solar share of 171 GW already accounts for a substantial portion of that goal.
Exam Relevance
Understanding this transition is crucial for GS‑3 (Economy) and GS‑1 (International Relations). The policy showcases India’s ability to combine technology, finance and governance to meet climate commitments, a key theme in sustainable development and energy security. Questions may focus on the impact of low‑cost solar on rural electrification, the role of subsidies, and how India’s achievement compares with other G20 members.
Way Forward
- Scale up installed solar capacity to meet the 500 GW target, focusing on storage and grid integration.
- Promote skill development for engineers, entrepreneurs and technicians to support the emerging solar ecosystem.
- Encourage research on AI‑driven decentralised solar management to improve efficiency and reliability.
- Strengthen financing mechanisms for low‑income households to ensure inclusive access.
By 2047, the first generation of solar‑savvy citizens and innovators is expected to drive India’s energy economy toward a fully sustainable and self‑reliant future.