Accelerating Adoption of Renewable Energy by Improving Stakeholder Participation
CAG has initiated this project to promote rooftop solar (RTS) adoption in selected districts of Tamil Nadu, namely Madurai, Karur, Dindigul, Salem, Namakkal, Thiruvarur, and Thanjavur. It aligns with India's sustainability goals by enhancing energy security, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering economic growth. The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, launched in February 2024, subsidises RTS installations for one crore households. This initiative empowers rural and low-income urban communities to achieve energy self-reliance, decreasing fossil fuel dependence and promoting environmental sustainability.
Tamil Nadu, a leader in renewable energy, boasts a cumulative solar capacity of 8,462.92 MW as of September 2024, with only 792.17 MW from rooftop installations. Furthermore, initiatives like the "Model Solar Village" program under the PM Surya Ghar scheme aim to make villages energy self-reliant, with top-performing villages receiving additional funding.
In urban areas of Tamil Nadu, barriers include multi-storey buildings meaning limited rooftop space, and subsidised electricity tariffs, reducing financial incentive to switch to solar. Strategies like promoting collective solar installations for apartment complexes, advocating for group net metering policies, and financial solutions with the support of banks can enhance RTS adoption among urban low-income households.
In rural Tamil Nadu, the adoption of rooftop solar (RTS) systems faces challenges like high initial investment costs that deter many households, especially those with limited financial resources.
For both urban and rural areas, a lack of consumer awareness about the benefits and technical aspects of RTS installations contributes to hesitation. Inconsistent policies and limited access to financing options further hinder widespread adoption. Addressing these issues through targeted education, streamlined policies, and accessible financing mechanisms is essential to promote RTS uptake in these areas.
