Goa’s Rooftop Solar Revolution: A Bright Step Toward Clean Energy
Goa is at the forefront of India’s renewable energy transition by a rigorous push for rooftop solar. The campaign has the backing of both the state and central governments, meaning that the ultimate goal is to give everyone access and affordable clean energyclean, with the lowest cost for the greatest number, obviously.
Goan Government Initiative for Free Rooftop Solar
Goa in partnership with the national government’s PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, is pushing the state’s own Goem Vinamulya Vij Yevjan 2024 campaign which was launched in May 2023, to provide up to 5 kW rooftop solar systems for free, to eligible households who consume less than 400 units of electricity per month. Households will receive not just free installation, but if selected under the scheme, will enjoy years of net-zero electricity bills for the next ten years, thus materially improving their household monthly budget.
To further support clean energy adoption with high-quality solar components and services, residents can explore ksquareenergy.com a leading provider of solar energy solutions tailored for Indian homes and businesses.
Enthusiasm Among Public for the Scheme
The uptake on the scheme has been that, not only are Goans enthusiastic and committed to using solar power, they also want to eliminate their own dependence on the grid! With-over 3,000 applications already received and many early adopters eager to join the roiftop solar revolution, it is possible that not least the central Government will join in support of this initiative.
The Goa state government witnesses that it has already paid ₹1.4 crore towards household solar systems and already hundreds have benefitted to signal the success of the demonstration phase.
A more ambitious target for 2025 and beyond
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced the target of 21,200 rooftop solar installations by 2027. The immediate target is a total of residential rooftop systems equals to 10 MW of solar generation by mid-2025. This clean renewable generation could cover up to 50% of Goa's daytime electricity requirements.
Delayed Subsidy Payments
So far this has been an exciting start, but it has not come without issues! There are over 340 applications for subsidies pending with the government. More than half of the reasons for this is that there were some changes in administrative functions to take us to an online, more efficient, new digital space. The Electricity Department has assured applicants that this is temporary, and the goal is to make this process as convenient, efficient and practical as possible as they work towards clearing the backlog.
Rejection of Floating Solar Project
In a related story, the Water Resources Department of Goa rejected a ₹1,300 crore floating solar project proposed by SJVN Green Energy Ltd for Goa's major reservoirs, citing concerns of water pollution and delivery impacts. The rejection highlights the State's careful "green" energy push because it does not compromise environmental balance.
A Model for the Nation
Goa's rooftop solar initiative is a clean energy project and a model for sustainable people-centered energy development. On the backdrop of growing public engagement, setting a target, and having a concern for the environment, Goa is paving the way for other states in India to follow.
