Goa is accelerating its renewable energy drive with the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, targeting 21,200 rooftop solar systems by 2027 to generate 65 MW of clean energy. With 5,000 applications and 7.34 MW already produced, the state aims to reduce thermal power reliance, offering free electricity for up to 400 units monthly and promoting sustainability.
Goa’s Ambitious Leap Toward Solar-Powered Households
Goa is making significant strides in its renewable energy journey, with the state government aggressively promoting the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana to bring free electricity to households. As of July 2025, over 5,000 applications have been received for rooftop solar installations, with 7.34 MW of solar power already generated, supported by Rs 3.8 crore in central financial assistance. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has set an ambitious target to install 21,200 rooftop solar systems by 2027, aiming to produce 65 MW of clean energy. This initiative is designed to benefit poor and middle-class families, ensuring affordable and sustainable energy access.
Under the scheme, households consuming up to 400 units of electricity per month will enjoy zero electricity bills for the next decade, provided they install rooftop solar systems. The state has already seen 500 consumers adopt this scheme, generating 5.7 MW of solar power as of May 2025. To further accelerate adoption, Goa is offering subsidies on a first-come, first-served basis, targeting 10 MW of rooftop solar capacity by June 2025. Additionally, the state plans to waive electricity bills for 10 years under a delinked scheme, distinct from the national PM Surya Ghar Yojana, to incentivize participation.
Goa’s current power requirement stands at 663.3 MW, with 559.9 MW sourced from thermal power, 61.6 MW from renewable sources, and 41.6 MW from nuclear sources. The state is actively working to reduce its reliance on thermal energy, aligning with India’s broader goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. To support this transition, the government is promoting large-scale solar adoption in new and existing buildings, including hotels, government offices, and residential complexes. Older schemes like the Goa Vinamulya Vidyut Yojana are being phased out and integrated into the PM Surya Ghar initiative, with a focus on mandatory solar installations for specific sectors.
The state’s efforts are part of a larger national push for renewable energy. India’s renewable power output surged by 24.4% in the first half of 2025, driven by increased wind and solar capacity, marking the fastest growth since 2022. Goa’s proactive measures, including feasibility approvals for over 4,700 installations, position it as a leader in this transition. The state is also addressing challenges such as the shortage of skilled labor for solar installations by encouraging training programs for surveyors, structural engineers, and certified electricians.
To further boost participation, Goa is streamlining the installation process and raising awareness about the financial benefits of rooftop solar systems. The government is also exploring gross metering options, where households can sell surplus electricity to the grid, providing an additional income stream. With these initiatives, Goa is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also setting a benchmark for sustainable energy adoption in India, blending innovation with environmental responsibility.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports, government announcements, and industry insights available as of July 4, 2025. Information is sourced from reputable outlets like Times of India, The Hindu, and posts on X, ensuring accuracy and relevance. Readers are advised to verify details with official government sources for the latest updates.