Chhattisgarh, celebrating its Silver Jubilee year (25th year of establishment), is embracing a new era of development. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the state is evolving beyond its identity as a resource-rich region, becoming a hub for a green revolution, particularly in solar energy. The ‘Solar Energy to Prosperity’ initiative, coupled with the Pradhan Mantri Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana and the state government’s double subsidy policy, is propelling Chhattisgarh toward energy self-sufficiency. The Pradhan Mantri Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana aims to provide clean, affordable, and free energy by installing solar panels on every home’s roof. The Chhattisgarh government has enhanced the central scheme with additional subsidies, transforming it into a ‘double engine, double guarantee’ program. Beneficiaries of this scheme not only reduce their electricity bills but also generate income by selling surplus electricity. The state’s double subsidy is a major attraction. Initially, the central government provided up to 60% subsidy for solar panel installation, which is now supplemented by the Chhattisgarh government. These government aids enable low and middle-income families to enjoy free electricity for life. The Sai government has established a loan facility with banking institutions offering loans at a 6.5% interest rate for up to 10 years. The EMI will be lower than the existing electricity bills, allowing consumers to pay the solar system installments instead of electricity bills and enjoy free electricity for life. This initiative aims to reduce the financial burden on the public and pave the way for long-term self-reliance. Solar energy goes beyond free electricity; it’s also becoming a new source of income. Excess electricity generated can be sold to discoms. A 2-kilowatt or higher capacity plant can generate over 200 units of electricity per month for 25 years. The benefits from this scheme exceed the maximum discounts available under the half-electricity scheme. Every consumer in Chhattisgarh is becoming not just a consumer, but also an energy producer and seller. Data illustrates that the scheme can bring revolutionary changes in people’s lives. The scheme provides 20-25 years of free, reliable energy. Additional income can be generated by selling excess electricity. Solar panels also promote a green and clean lifestyle. The Chief Minister’s government has made practical changes to the half-electricity bill scheme. Now, consumption up to 100 units will receive a 50% discount. The government says that the poor and vulnerable will continue to get relief. Chhattisgarh’s Silver Jubilee year is an opportunity for self-reflection and new resolutions. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai aims to have solar panels on every home’s roof in the next 5 years and transform Chhattisgarh into a green energy model for India. The scheme is transforming rural and urban lives by making electricity accessible and affordable. Farmers are selling electricity for additional income. Irrigation and rural industries can also be powered by solar energy. Apartments and societies are also setting up collective solar energy projects. Solar panel installation, maintenance, and manufacturing are creating new job opportunities. The scheme will also benefit the MSME sector. The state’s reliance on coal-based electricity will decrease. The aim is to ensure a clean and green environment for future generations. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has transformed this scheme into a people’s movement, aiming for energy self-reliance for every household. The hope is that Chhattisgarh will become a leading solar energy state, where prosperity is found in every home.
