In Short : Guidelines have been issued for saturating government buildings with rooftop solar installations. This initiative aims to maximize solar energy use, reduce electricity costs, and promote sustainable practices across public infrastructure, supporting the transition to renewable energy.
In Detail : The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued guidelines for saturating government buildings with rooftop solar panels under the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. This initiative aims to increase solar power generation and empower households with clean energy. These guidelines were issued on July 3, 2024.
According to these guidelines, all central government buildings must be equipped with rooftop solar panels by December 31, 2025, if technically feasible.
For the purposes of this scheme, the “buildings under Central Ministries/ State/UT Departments” shall refer to be all buildings or assets that are fully owned by these Ministries/ Departments as well as by their autonomous institutions, subordinate offices, attached offices, Public Sector Enterprises. This applies to the said entities irrespective of their status of current possession. Residential colonies under the Central Ministry/ State/ UT Departments shall also be saturated with rooftop solar.
No central financial assistance will be provided under the Scheme for buildings in the Government sector, but the installation will be undertaken by experienced public sector companies chosen by the MNRE.
State and Union Territory governments are encouraged to follow suit and adopt similar plans for their buildings.
The scheme aims to promote clean energy generation and reduce dependence on conventional power sources.
Implementation Timelines
Central government ministries have two months to assess their rooftop solar potential and expedite installations. States and UTs are encouraged to develop their own implementation plans.
