Thiruvananthapuram: The central government is launching a new initiative under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana that allows homeowners to lease their rooftops for solar power plants. This programme offers the option to receive either rent or electricity in return for using the rooftops.

According to draft guidelines released by the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Renewable Energy Service Companies (RESCO) can lease these rooftops. Homeowners will not need to spend any money on the installation or maintenance of the solar systems; RESCO will take care of everything. Rent payments can be adjusted to account for electricity usage.

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After five years, ownership of the solar plant will transfer to the homeowner. Various organisations, including government institutions and agencies like KSEB, can also establish these solar systems. If homeowners do not need the electricity generated, the company can sell it back to the KSEB grid.

RESCO’s challenges in KSEB’s Soura initiative

Previous efforts to implement rooftop solar projects, such as the KSEB Soura initiative, have faced difficulties. Companies hesitated to participate, citing challenges in setting up the plants and managing rent and electricity collections. There was also confusion regarding the ownership of the solar installations at that time.

This new plan aims to encourage more homeowners to participate in solar energy projects, potentially providing them with extra income and lowering their electricity costs.