As India continues to expand renewable energy production, Maharashtra is moving ahead with a major rooftop solar push aimed at helping low-income households install panels.
Under the program, more than 200,000 low-income households will receive rooftop systems that provide one kilowatt of power in ideal conditions, according to SolarQuarter. Once implemented, the program has the potential to significantly reduce energy costs while also helping to reduce air pollution.
Here's what to know
To qualify, households must be categorized as Below Poverty Line families or Economically Weaker Section members of Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities. Additionally, their homes must use less than 100 units of electricity per month.
According to SolarQuarter, the project budget is estimated at 959.93 crore rupees (about $100 million) overall. Funding is expected to include 30,000 rupees ($330) per home in Central Financial Assistance plus 30% to 35% from the state. That would leave beneficiary payments at 2,500 rupees ($27.50) for BPL households and 5,000 rupees ($55.00) for Scheduled Caste and Tribe Economically Weaker Section households.
Even if your household does not qualify for solar incentives, going solar is still one of the best ways to save money on home energy. Homeowners exploring their solar options can check out EnergySage to get free solar installation estimates and compare quotes.
What's being done?
Rooftop solar cuts monthly energy costs for years, which can particularly benefit low-income households. However, installation expenses often keep these families from accessing the technology.
Assistance programs like the one in Maharashtra can help families devote less of their money to energy costs, freeing up funds for other important needs. It can also mean improving air quality and reducing reliance on non-renewable power sources.
If you're looking to learn more, EnergySage's solar map shows the average cost of a home solar panel system on a state-by-state level, along with details on solar panel incentives for each state.
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Going a step further, adding battery storage to a solar setup can protect your home during outages, help save money on energy, and even allow you to go off grid. Homeowners who want to compare options can explore EnergySage for information about home battery storage choices, including competitive installation estimates.
If installing solar panels on your home isn't possible for whatever reason, there may also be a community solar program in your area that can help you out.
Where can I learn more?
Many people are looking to expand rooftop solar to create less of a reliance on polluting energy sources and help others save money.
• Across India, PM Surya Ghar drives a sharp rise in rooftop solar installations.
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• In California, city leaders are turning rooftop solar into relief for low-income households.
• In Georgia, officials launched a $156 million program giving homeowners free rooftop solar panels.
• New grid research shows households with rooftop solar can deliver wider energy system benefits.
• In Colorado, officials are removing barriers and red tape around plug-in solar options.
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