Gujarat got India’s first solar village a remarkable achievement for India’s solar energy program. Masali village in Banaskantha district has become the country’s first “solar village” along the border.

It is located just 40 km from the Pakistan border, this small village with a population of 800 has embraced solar energy, transforming its energy landscape and becoming self-dependent in electricity generation.

The village’s 199 households now have solar rooftop panels installed, collectively generating 225.5 kW of electricity. It generates more electricity and surpasses the village’s total power needs.

This transformative project, valued at ₹1.16 crore, was made possible through a collaborative effort involving the Revenue Department, Uttar Gujarat Vij Company Limited (UGVCL), banks, and solar companies.

The initiative received substantial subsidies under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, public contributions, and CSR funds.

Mihir Patel, District Collector of Banaskantha, praised this achievement as a matter of pride, marking Masali as the second solar village in Gujarat after Modhera and the first on the border. 

The state government has plans to replicate this success, with 17 additional villages in Vav and Suigam talukas for development into fully solar-powered communities.

Sarpanch Magniram Rawal highlighted the impact of solar energy on the village, stating that the initiative has resolved longstanding electricity issues and eliminated the burden of energy bills for residents. 

The solar panels also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing dependency on conventional energy sources.

The target to transform over one crore households into solar-powered homes by 2027, PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana continues to drive India’s ambitious renewable energy goals, with Masali village as a shining example of progress in sustainable development.

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