Goa aims to solarize 50% of its households by 2026 under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, targeting 21,200 rooftop solar systems to generate 65 MW of clean energy. With subsidies up to ₹78,000 and zero electricity bills for up to 400 units monthly, the state is reducing reliance on thermal power while promoting sustainable energy.
Goa Accelerates Rooftop Solar Adoption for Households
Goa is making significant strides in its renewable energy journey, with an ambitious plan to install rooftop solar systems in 50% of its households by 2026. Under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, launched by the Government of India on February 29, 2024, the state has set a target to install 21,200 rooftop solar systems by 2027, generating 65 MW of clean energy. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has emphasized reaching out to poor and middle-class families to ensure affordable and sustainable energy access.
As of June 2025, Goa has already seen over 4,700 feasibility approvals for rooftop solar installations, generating 7.34 MW of solar power. The state has disbursed subsidies worth ₹4.2 crore to support these installations. Sawant has directed officials to fast-track the process to meet the 2027 target, with a specific focus on covering half of Goa’s households within the next year.
The scheme offers substantial financial incentives, with the central government providing subsidies of up to ₹78,000 for a 3KW rooftop solar plant, which costs between ₹1.8 lakh and ₹2 lakh. Additionally, the state government offers a 30% subsidy, making solar adoption more accessible. Households consuming up to 400 units of electricity per month can enjoy zero electricity bills for ten years, provided they stay within the limit. For consumption exceeding 300 units, charges apply only for the additional units.
Goa’s current solar output stands at 58 MW, a modest figure compared to its potential of over 10 GW, as identified by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE). Rooftop solar accounts for 53 MW, comprising over 90% of the state’s solar capacity. To bridge this gap, the government is promoting initiatives like the Model Solar Village competition across 63 villages to encourage decentralized renewable energy adoption.
The state’s power demand is 663.3 MW, with thermal energy supplying 559.9 MW, renewables contributing 61.6 MW, and nuclear energy accounting for 41.6 MW. By expanding rooftop solar, Goa aims to reduce its reliance on thermal power, aligning with India’s national sustainability goals. The state has received nearly 5,000 applications for rooftop solar installations, reflecting growing public interest.
Union Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy Shripad Naik has highlighted the scheme’s environmental benefits, noting that it will help India achieve its zero-emission targets and reduce pollution. Prosumers—households that both produce and consume electricity—can transfer excess power to the grid, further reducing their bills and contributing to the state’s energy pool.
To accelerate adoption, Goa is offering subsidies on a first-come, first-served basis, targeting 10 MW of rooftop solar capacity by June 2025. Additionally, all state government buildings are slated to be equipped with solar rooftops within the next two years, setting an example for residential and commercial sectors.
The state’s efforts are part of India’s broader renewable energy push, with solar power contributing 110,834 MW to the country’s total power capacity of 475 GW as of May 2025. Despite challenges like early monsoon rains affecting solar output, India’s solar capacity grew by 31.51% compared to the previous year, underscoring the rapid expansion of renewable energy nationwide.
Goa’s strategic initiatives, including the ₹2.3-crore startup innovation challenge launched by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, aim to foster innovation in rooftop solar and distributed renewable energy systems. This challenge, with a prize pool including ₹1 crore for the first prize, seeks to identify breakthrough solutions to enhance solar adoption across India.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from recent news reports, government statements, and industry sources. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, readers are advised to verify details through official government portals or consult energy experts for personalized advice.