Government Pushes Rooftop Solar in Urban Housing Societies with Subsidies and Simplified Policies – EQ
In Short : The government is promoting solar panel installations in group housing societies to boost rooftop solar adoption in urban areas. Through subsidies under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana and simplified guidelines, societies can reduce power bills and carbon footprints. Common area electricity needs can be met with solar, making clean energy more affordable and accessible for multi-family residential buildings.
In Detail : The government has initiated a new drive to promote solar panel installations in group housing societies across urban India. This step is aimed at increasing rooftop solar adoption in multi-storey residential complexes and apartment buildings.
Group housing societies have traditionally faced hurdles in adopting solar energy due to shared rooftops, ownership complexities, and lack of policy clarity. The new approach seeks to simplify the process and encourage wider participation.
Under the initiative, group housing societies will be eligible for central subsidies through the PM Surya Ghar Yojana. These financial incentives are designed to reduce upfront costs and make solar adoption more affordable.
The solar power generated can be used to run common utilities like lifts, water pumps, lighting, and other shared amenities. This will significantly reduce electricity bills for societies and lower monthly maintenance charges for residents.
The policy also supports equitable energy sharing among residents in the society. Any excess power generated can be fed into the grid through net metering, enabling financial savings and energy credits.
Implementation support will be provided by state nodal agencies and DISCOMs. These agencies will guide societies in planning installations, choosing vendors, and ensuring technical standards are met.
Successful pilot projects in cities like Delhi and Ahmedabad have demonstrated that rooftop solar in group housing is both feasible and impactful. These projects are now serving as models for the wider rollout.
To raise awareness, the government will launch outreach programs targeting Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), promoting the long-term financial and environmental benefits of solar adoption.
This initiative is expected to contribute meaningfully to India’s rooftop solar targets and strengthen decentralized clean energy infrastructure in urban residential areas.
