Pune: The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has introduced a significant change to the "Prime Minister’s Solar Home Free Electricity" scheme by providing solar net meters free of charge to customers. This move is aimed at encouraging rooftop solar energy production and simplifying the monitoring process for users.

The scheme, designed to benefit domestic customers consuming up to 300 units of electricity per month, offers free electricity and an opportunity to earn income by selling surplus power back to MSEDCL.

Customers installing rooftop solar power systems with capacities up to 3 kW can avail themselves of subsidies provided by the Central Government.

Streamlining Solar Energy Monitoring

To track solar power generation, household consumption, and surplus energy sold back to the grid, a dedicated net meter is essential. Previously, the cost of this meter was borne by the customers. However, under the revised provisions, MSEDCL will now provide the net meters free of cost.

Customers will also gain access to detailed daily reports through a mobile application, which will display data on energy generation, consumption, and surplus units. This feature aims to help customers better plan their energy usage.

Widespread Adoption Across the State

The scheme has seen considerable interest, with 3,23,000 customers submitting applications statewide. Out of these, 83,074 customers have already had solar power systems installed on their rooftops.

All these customers will now receive free solar net meters. Furthermore, the Central Government has sanctioned ₹647 crore in subsidies for these installations, ensuring financial support for the beneficiaries.