The Solar Rooftop Scheme is a recent addition for a government target set up in 2017. The core objective of the scheme is to help farmers use their land to install solar panels to meet their farming needs. The government will buy the power that gets generated. The Minister said that this scheme is a part of the government’s plan to increase farmer’s income by 2022.
Solar Rooftop Scheme – An Overview
Scheme Name – Solar Rooftop Scheme
Scheme Modification Date – 15th March
Scheme Fund Allocated – INR 50 billion
Type of Government Scheme – Central Government
Website to apply – solarrooftop.gov.in
Helpline Nos – 1800 2 33 44 77
Features of the Solar Rooftop Scheme
| Sl. Nos | Details about the Solar Rooftop Scheme | |
| 1 | How much space is needed for fixing the solar rooftop power plant? | 100 square feet |
| 2 | What is the cost of installing a solar panel without subsidy? | Rs.60k – Rs.70K |
| 3 | What amount do farmers need to pay after 30% subsidy reduction? | Rs.42 – Rs.49K |
| 4 | How much power generation is required for use the Generation based Incentive? | 1,100 to 1,500 Kwh / Kwp p.a |
| 5 | How much can farmers earn from this scheme? | Approximately Rs. 2k to 3k per annum |
| 6 | How much loans do Indian banks grant for setting up solar panel? | Up to Rs.1lakh at an intertest rate of 8% |
| 7 | What is the loan term? | About 4 – 5 years or more |
What are the benefits of the Solar Rooftop Scheme for farmers?
Through the Solar Rooftop Scheme the farmers can use solar energy in places where power supply or grid connection is challenging. Other important benefits are:
- Power irrigation – Solar rooftops can stop farmers from depending in unreliable power supply. This switch from diesel to solar is an environment friendly practice.
- Helps to save water – Farmers face poor power supply that makes them leave the pumps on. It affects groundwater levels and wastes electricity. Solar panels can provide constant power supply and help them save water.
- Cost savings – The cost of solar power plant per acre has reduced, due to a 70% drop in solar modules cost in the last four years. As a result, farmers can save on solar pumps.
How to apply for the Solar Rooftop Scheme?
Step 1 – Applicants should visit solarrooftop.gov.in
Step 2 – Browse the homepage and click on “Apply for Rooftop Solar” to register
Step 3 – Enter the state name, consumer account number, distribution company or utility and click on the “Next” button
Step 4 – Download SANDES App for registering for the Rooftop Solar Scheme by using the QR code shown
Step 5 – Enter mobile number and then click for sending the OTP to SANDES App. After that add the Email ID and Mobile Sandes App OTP for completing the Solar Rooftop Scheme application
Step 6 – After this, add in the registered mobile number, consumer account number and click on the “Login” option and apply at National Solar Rooftop Panel online.
What documents do you need?
- The moment farmers get their commissioning report, they will have to submit their bank account details along with a cancelled cheque at the website.
The Solar Rooftop Scheme encourages more farmers to set up solar panels on their roof for drawing less power from the grid station. It will help them to bring down electricity bills and meet their electricity needs too.
Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.
