In a move to tap non-conventional energy, the Tripura government has illuminated 266 households with solar power under Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which set a milestone for India’s mission towards renewable energy.
Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath said that at the beginning of the state’s ambitious mission to install solar power systems in 50,000 households by March 2027, Tripura achieved an impressive target of becoming self-reliant in the power sector by six months.
The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, a flagship initiative by the Central government, aims to make clean energy accessible to millions while reducing dependency on conventional energy sources, he said, adding, “In Tripura, as many as 13,536 households registered online to avail its benefits.”
The Surya Ghar scheme is a game-changer, enabling households to generate their electricity, save on bills, and even earn income by supplying surplus power to the grid,” Nath said. At least 184 consumers have received government subsidies to install solar plants so far, while 15 banks have disbursed loans of Rs 1.75 crore, he stated.
The minister said domestic consumers can set up solar systems up to 10 kilowatts, with subsidies available for up to 3 kilowatts. Housing apartments and residential welfare associations can install plants up to 500 kilowatts, with a subsidy of Rs 19,800 per kilowatt.
The financial incentives have empowered households to embrace solar energy, with 70 consumers already earning income by supplying excess electricity to the grid. The Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited has transferred Rs 30,902 to these consumers’ bank accounts, showcasing the scheme’s potential to create additional revenue streams.
Besides, the Gomati Hydroelectric Project is undergoing modernization in collaboration with the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC), aiming to generate 15 megawatts of power along with Rukhia thermal plant, and gas-based power plants at Palatana and Monarchak. The state is also exploring the feasibility of micro-hydro power projects at 10 locations and an 800-megawatt pump storage facility in Chhaumanu in Dhalai district.
