The PM Surya Ghar Yojana has sparked a nationwide solar energy revolution. Launched on February 13, 2024, with a budget of ₹75,021 crore (approximately $1.5 billion). The primary goal was to install rooftop solar in 10 million homes by March 2027. According to reports, over 4 million systems have been installed so far, prompting preparations for the second phase of the scheme, PM Surya Ghar 2.0.
This phase will focus on long-term service availability, group and virtual net metering options, and battery storage.
Small solar panel installation companies have often closed down over time, leaving those who have installed solar systems through them without access to service.
Under PM Surya Ghar 2.0, the government is considering enacting regulations that will require vendors to provide long-term service.
This will ensure that those who install solar panels will receive service for the entire life of the system.
PM Surya Ghar Yojana 2.0 will also address those who do not own their own homes or rooftops.
Group and virtual net metering are being planned for these individuals.
This will allow multiple homes or apartments to benefit from a single shared solar system.
This will make it possible for everyone to benefit from solar energy.
In the initial phase of the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, battery storage systems were not included to keep costs low.
However, now the government is recognizing the need for battery storage under PM Surya Ghar Yojana 2.0.
In this phase, the government is considering installing battery systems in people’s homes, near transformers, or at the power companies’ level.
This means that the government may also include solar systems with storage in this phase. It is worth noting that these systems did not previously receive any subsidy.
The government may also implement digital monitoring of solar systems during this phase.
This could be done to make the scheme more transparent and reliable.
In addition, work is being done to improve the quality of equipment and simplify the bank loan process for the general public.