Solar power reaches isolated households in J&K

Jammu and Kashmir is steadily advancing its renewable energy push under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, with over 13,600 rooftop solar systems installed so far. While 5,413 households are receiving zero electricity bills, the real achievement lies in bringing reliable power to isolated and remote homes that previously had limited or no access to electricity.

The scheme, reviewed in a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, aims to cover 83,500 households across the Union Territory, promoting clean energy and reducing dependency on conventional electricity sources. Officials said the programme has already provided tangible benefits to many residents, particularly in far-flung areas where grid connectivity is challenging.

The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana focuses on installing rooftop solar systems for households, offering financial assistance and technical support to ensure the systems function efficiently. By enabling homes to generate their own electricity, the scheme reduces energy costs while supporting India’s broader renewable energy goals.

Scaling the programme to reach its target involves challenges such as ensuring sufficient supply of solar panels and skilled technicians, addressing difficult terrain and climatic conditions, and integrating large numbers of systems into the electricity grid. Funding, maintenance, and household awareness are also critical to the scheme’s success.

Despite these hurdles, officials highlighted that each home powered by solar energy represents a meaningful step towards energy independence and sustainability in the Union Territory. With continued focus and monitoring, the programme is expected to significantly improve electricity access, particularly for remote and underserved communities, while advancing a greener future for J&K.