I. Introduction to Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana

- Initiated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana is geared towards promoting solar energy usage in India.

- The initiative draws its inspiration from the energy of Lord Shri Ram and his affiliation with Ayodhya.

- The aim of this project is to enable India to become self-reliant in terms of energy usage, focusing on harnessing solar power.

II. Understanding Rooftop Solar Panels

- Rooftop solar panels are photovoltaic panels attached to the top of a structure that are linked to the main power supply.

- The primary benefits of a rooftop solar system are reduced dependence on grid-connected electricity and significant savings on electricity costs.

- The surplus energy produced through these panels can be transferred back to the grid adhering to the set regulations.

- The consumers have a chance to gain financial rewards for surplus power injected into the grid, following the defined regulations.

III. Social Impact of the Yojana

- The Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana primarily aims to benefit the common citizens, with particular emphasis towards the economically weaker and middle classes.

- By reducing electricity expenses, the scheme promotes energy self-sufficiency.

- The plan is to equip up to 1 crore houses with rooftop solar panels, significantly reducing the financial burdens of these households.

IV. Yojana's Vision

- The vision for this initiative was projected after PM Modi's return from Ayodhya.

- The goal is to empower households by providing them with their own electricity through the installation of solar panels.

- The ultimate aim is to stride towards a more sustainable and energy independent future.

V. Technical Details of the Project

- The initiative focuses on rooftop solar systems involving installation of photovoltaic panels on homes or buildings.

- These systems are designed to decrease reliance on grid-connected electricity thereby leading to considerable savings.

- The initial investment includes the capital cost and minor subsequent maintenance costs.

VI. Governmental Support for the Initiative

- The National Rooftop Scheme has been implemented to bolster this initiative.

- Under its provisions, financial aid amounting to up to 40% of capital cost is provided for rooftop projects.

- The process of selection and execution of these projects is overseen by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

VII. India's Present Solar Capacity

- As of December 2023, India's total installed rooftop solar capacity is approximately 11.08 GW.

- State-wise, the lead is taken by Gujarat with a capacity of 2.8 GW, followed by Maharashtra at 1.7 GW.

- Only a fifth of the total rooftop installations are residential, with commercial and industrial sectors leading.

- Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW) suggests potential of rooftop solar energy of up to 637 GW with India's 25 crore households.

- India's total solar installed capacity, including solar parks and roofs, is around 73.31 GW as of December 2023, with Rajasthan at the forefront (18.7 GW) followed by Gujarat (10.5 GW).