Jammu, March 27, 2025 – In a significant stride towards sustainable energy adoption in Jammu and Kashmir, the Managing Director of Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL), Yasin Chaudhary, announced that over 1,400 JPDCL consumers have achieved zero electricity bills following the installation of Rooftop Solar (RTS) systems under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana. This flagship scheme, launched by the Government of India, aims to promote renewable energy by providing free electricity to households through subsidized solar panel installations.
The announcement highlights the growing success of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana in the region, with JPDCL reporting a total of 1,573 RTS installations as of recent updates. Among the districts, Kishtwar leads with 88 installations, showcasing the scheme’s reach across Jammu and Kashmir. Collectively, these installations have contributed to a solar power generation capacity of 10.38 MW, offering a sustainable solution to rising energy costs and reducing dependence on traditional grid electricity.
Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, Atal Dulloo, emphasized the need for heightened awareness to ensure more residents can tap into the scheme’s benefits. During a recent UT Level Coordination Committee (UTLCC) meeting on March 25, 2025, Dulloo urged officials to intensify efforts in promoting the PM Surya Ghar Yojana. “We must ensure brisk awareness generation so that the public can optimally utilize the benefits of this flagship scheme,” he stated, underscoring the transformative potential of rooftop solar for households.
The PM Surya Ghar Yojana, launched on February 13, 2024, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, targets solarizing one crore households nationwide by March 2027. With a budget outlay of 75,021 crore rupees, the scheme provides substantial subsidies—up to 60% of the cost for systems of 2 kilowatts and 40% for additional capacity up to 3 kilowatts—making solar energy accessible and affordable. In Jammu and Kashmir, JPDCL has processed financial support for 1,568 consumers, disbursing 2,654.38 lakh rupees between October 31, 2024, and March 21, 2025, to facilitate these installations.
Dulloo also called for streamlining the application process, reducing waiting periods, and ensuring swift subsidy disbursal to encourage greater participation. “Success stories of consumers who have significantly reduced their energy bills should be made public to inspire others,” he added during the meeting, which was attended by key officials, including the Principal Secretary of the Power Development Department (PDD), Commissioner Secretary of the IT Department, Deputy Commissioners, and representatives from implementation agencies like NHPC.
The scheme’s impact is evident as beneficiaries experience immediate financial relief. By generating their own electricity through rooftop solar panels, households not only achieve zero bills but also contribute to India’s renewable energy goals. The initiative aligns with the broader vision of reducing carbon emissions and fostering energy self-reliance across the country.
As Jammu and Kashmir continues to embrace this green revolution, the focus on awareness and efficient implementation will be critical to unlocking the full potential of the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, ensuring that more JPDCL consumers can enjoy the dual benefits of cost savings and environmental sustainability.