Andhra Pradesh’s Solar Push: A Progress Report
To promote rooftop solar energy, the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy plans to develop a model solar village in each district of India. Andhra Pradesh is steadily advancing in rooftop solar installations under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Yojana, as an increasing number of residents harness unlimited solar energy.
As of August 2, 2024, Andhra Pradesh’s power distribution companies (DISCOMs) have received 23,488 applications and completed 1,602 installations through registered vendors, according to official sources. Visakhapatnam district leads with 272 installations from 1,555 applications. In contrast, Alluri Sitarama Raju and Sri Satya Sai districts have zero installations despite receiving 222 and 469 applications, respectively.
Districts East Godavari, Guntur, NTR, and West Godavari each boast over 110 installations, while the remaining districts have fewer than 100 installations. So far, subsidies have been released to 213 consumers.
According to the AP State Electricity Regulatory Commission’s 2023 regulation, residential consumers exporting surplus solar energy to the grid under net-metering will receive ₹2.09 per kWh. Households installing rooftop solar systems are eligible for a subsidy of ₹30,000 per kW for up to 2 kW and ₹18,000 per kW for additional capacity up to 3 kW, with a total subsidy cap of ₹78,000. Typical household energy consumption guides suggested capacities: 1-2 kW for 0-150 units, 2-3 kW for 150-300 units, and more than 3 kW for consumption exceeding 300 units.
Group Housing Societies (GHS) and Residential Welfare Associations (RWA) are eligible for a subsidy of ₹18,000 per kW for up to 500 kW capacity (3 kW per house), inclusive of individual rooftop installations. The Union Ministry’s plan for model solar villages across districts remains in contemplation.
By focusing on solar energy, Andhra Pradesh drives forward its goal of sustainable and renewable energy adoption.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/visakhapatnam-district-ranks-first-in-state-in-implementing-pm-surya-ghar-yojana/article68568091.ece
Category : Visakhapatnam
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