The PM Surya Ghar Yojana, an initiative by the government to install rooftop solar systems in 10 million households, has hit several roadblocks in its implementation across various states.
Despite ambitious targets, the program appears to be struggling due to many challenges stakeholders face, including state distribution companies (DISCOMs), installers, and consumers.
The Renewable Energy Association of Rajasthan (REAR) has attributed the poor implementation of the program to the “insensitive behavior” of DISCOM officials.
The letter highlights the widespread non-compliance with the revised net metering timelines set by the DISCOMs.
REAR has suggested temporarily allowing offline net metering processes to help prevent further delays.
The PM Surya Ghar Yojana, an initiative by the government to install rooftop solar systems in 10 million households, has hit several roadblocks in its implementation across various states.
Despite ambitious targets, the program appears to be struggling due to many challenges stakeholders face, including state distribution companies (DISCOMs), installers, and consumers.
Data revealed during a recent webinar by REC highlights the stark disparity in the program’s progress between states. While Gujarat has achieved an installation-to-application ratio of 19.45%, Rajasthan lags significantly behind at a mere 1.75% despite having fewer applications than Gujarat.
The Renewable Energy Association of Rajasthan (REAR) has attributed the poor implementation of the program to the “insensitive behavior” of DISCOM officials.
In a letter to the authorities, REAR said, “Despite efforts by the DISCOMs to sensitize field employees, many Assistant Engineer offices remain oblivious to the latest orders, rules, and regulations related to rooftop solar installations.”
This lack of knowledge often results in delayed or improper handling of consumer and vendor requests.
The letter highlights the widespread non-compliance with the revised net metering timelines set by the DISCOMs. Despite an order issued on February 27, 2024, mandating a reduction in the net metering timeline from 80 days to 18 days, none of the Assistant Engineer offices have adhered to the new guidelines.
Approximately 70% of consumers require load extensions to accommodate their solar installation requirements. However, the DISCOMs’ load extension procedures are cumbersome, often taking months to complete, even in cases where no physical alterations to cables or meters are required onsite.
For the past two months, the PM Surya Ghar National Portal, which serves as the program’s backbone, has been plagued by glitches, causing issues for consumers, vendors, and DISCOM officials. REAR has suggested temporarily allowing offline net metering processes to help prevent further delays.
Meanwhile, various installers told Mercom they could not edit capacity details after submission. They also complained about difficulties in tracking application progress at the portal.
