Himachal Pradesh News
Shimla’s Mehli Panchayat Becomes Model Solar Village, Wins ₹1 Crore Under PM Surya Ghar Yojana
In a significant push towards clean energy adoption, Mehli Gram Panchayat in Shimla district has been selected to be developed as a model solar village under the ambitious PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. The panchayat has also been awarded a ₹1 crore incentive, marking a major milestone in the region’s renewable energy journey.
In a significant push towards clean energy adoption, Mehli Gram Panchayat in Shimla district has been selected to be developed as a model solar village under the ambitious PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. The panchayat has also been awarded a ₹1 crore incentive, marking a major milestone in the region’s renewable energy journey.
The announcement was made by Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap during a district-level review meeting on Monday. Highlighting Mehli’s achievement, he noted that the panchayat was the only one among the initially shortlisted villages to complete all required formalities within the stipulated deadline of February 28, 2026.
Initially, around ten villages—including Kumarsain, Duttnagar, Baonda, Shingla, Kitbadi, Chhakrail, Tyal, Sarahan, Mehli, and Perhech—were selected under the scheme. However, Mehli stood out due to its timely compliance and proactive approach.
Providing an update on the district’s progress, Kashyap revealed that 657 applications have been received so far under the scheme. Out of these, 231 solar projects have already been installed, collectively generating 803 kW of solar power. Inspections have been completed for all these installations, and 204 beneficiaries have received subsidies.
He emphasized that the scheme has the potential to transform rural households by reducing electricity costs and promoting sustainable energy use. To further encourage participation, panchayats are being offered a ₹1,000 incentive for each rooftop solar installation.
“The success of Mehli should inspire other panchayats to actively participate and raise awareness among residents,” Kashyap said, urging local representatives to drive community engagement and maximize the benefits of the scheme.
Launched by the Central Government on February 29, 2024, the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana aims to expand rooftop solar capacity across India. The scheme offers subsidies of up to 60% for systems up to 2 kW and 40% for additional capacity up to 3 kW, with a maximum subsidy of ₹85,000 per household.
To be eligible, applicants must be Indian citizens with a suitable rooftop and a valid electricity connection. Additionally, the household should not have previously availed of any solar subsidy.
With Mehli leading the way, Shimla district is now witnessing a growing shift toward clean, affordable, and self-sustained energy solutions, setting an example for rural India.
