An initiative was launched by the government of India – “PM Surya Ghar Yojana” to install rooftop solar panels in 1 crore households. This scheme has now blocked its executions because of some obstacles. 

Some problems obstructing the government’s goals include challenges with DISCOMS, state distribution companies, processes by installers, and complications in consumer’s experiences. 

Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) released some data that shows the differences in progress of states. Gujarat has installed an application ratio of about 19.45%, however, Rajasthan fell back with a major difference and installed just 1.75% applications in its state. Although Rajasthan has fewer applications than Gujarat. 

A concerned letter was issued by The Renewable Energy Association of Rajasthan (REAR) to the authorities where they mentioned challenges suffered because of DISCOMS staff. Despite keeping them informed, many of the Assistant Engineers are unaware of the latest updates, rules, and regulations related to rooftop solar installations.

Furthermore, the letter highlights critical challenges by Assistant Engineers in delaying the approvals of the installation of rooftop solar panels. All this was happening with consumers after the government made a strict law. On the other hand, this program’s backbone – PM Surya Ghar National Portal had technical issues that created troubles for consumers, vendors, and DISCOMS officials. To overcome this problem REAR has requested consumers to switch to offline net metering processes. 

Users of rooftop solar complained that they are unable to edit the capacity details after submission and lack of application tracking function in the portal.

The installers shared that the loan process is so time-consuming for approvals from institutions like the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI).

Some of the vendors explained that because of the weak connection between the national PM Surya Ghar portal and the Jan Samarth portal, which helps with credit-linked government programs. This created a lack of options for some consumers as all banks are not there in the Jan Samarth Portal. The registration process also took plenty of time, officially after registration it should take 8 to 10 days but for many consumers, it took more than one month for a feasibility check. 

Some vendors from states like Rajasthan, Chennai, and Telangana complained about problems faced in application filling on the portal, issues regarding feasibility approvals, and many more.

As the challenges are overpowering, REAR has established a committee that includes representatives of DISOMS, vendors, consumers, and industry groups to find effective solutions to the issues. They have advised making clear solutions for performance reviews, consumer complaining processes, and providing state subsidies to increase solar adoptions.

Sources : https://www.mercomindia.com/issues-plague-pm-surya-ghar-yojana

Our Perspective

PM Surya Ghar Yojana is an effective scheme for the households of the country. It will help people in various aspects. Therefore, it is important to overcome all the obstacles the government is facing in implementing the scheme. An experienced and knowledgeable committee should work for this scheme to work effectively.