No Subsidy Received For RE Installation, Consumers Struggle

As the government promotes RE adoption for consumers, promising financial assistance, the reality seems quite different in Goa. 

Several consumers in Goa are reportedly not getting government subsidies that they are eligible for after installing rooftop solar panels at their own cost. Online portal dysfunction has been held responsible for this. 

The Times of India reported that the problem is being faced not only by Goan consumers but also by people across the country. Initially, there was a National Rooftop Solar portal that later transitioned to the PM Surya Ghar portal after the new scheme was launched. The glitches arose during the platform migration, hence causing difficulties. 

The consumers have contacted officials from the state electricity department, but the government portal does not let the state board file the final subsidy approval. 

350 consumers across Goa have noted that the national subsidy for rooftop solar plants depends on processing applications through an online portal, which has been dysfunctional for a significant period, particularly in the state.

This cumbersome application process has not been disclosed in the extensive promotion of the Surya Ghar scheme.

A government official has confirmed that the administration is in touch with those who manages the portal and hopes to get the matter resolved soon.

A resident of Dabolim, Panaji, told ToI that he recently installed a 5.5KW rooftop solar plant on his house, which was successfully commissioned last week. His primary motivation behind this installation was the Prime Minister’s vision for promoting green and clean energy through initiatives like the Surya Ghar scheme. 

However, despite the promised subsidies from the state and central governments, the financial returns he receives do not justify the investment.

Launched in February this year, the Surya Ghar scheme encourages residential consumers to adopt renewable energy, particularly through subsidies. A lack of this financial assistance could deter consumer interest and hinder RE growth in India.