Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 14: In a major step towards energy reform and sustainability, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday announced a new policy aligned with the PM Suryaghar Yojana, under which subsidies will be provided for rooftop solar panel installation to low-usage electricity consumers (0–100 units).

Responding to a calling attention motion moved by NCP legislator Chetan Tupe in the Maharashtra Assembly, Fadnavis—who also holds the energy portfolio—said that the policy aims to promote renewable energy use among domestic consumers and reduce their dependence on conventional power sources.

He highlighted that, for the first time in two decades, nearly 70% of Mahavitaran (MSEDCL) consumers who fall within the 0–100 unit category have seen a 26% reduction in electricity tariffs, with no future increase of 10% planned for this segment.

Key Announcements by the Chief Minister:

• Rooftop Solar Subsidy:
Consumers using 0–100 units of electricity will be eligible for government subsidies under the new rooftop solar policy.

• Underground Power Cabling:

The government plans to expand underground cabling across the state to ensure a more reliable and safe electricity supply. After clearance from the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC), a surcharge of 1, 2, or 5 paise per unit may be levied to fund this initiative.

• Smart Meter Expansion:

Maharashtra has already installed 40 lakh smart meters, with only 1% complaints, all of which have been promptly resolved.

o Consumers with smart meters receive a 10% rebate during solar hours.
o Real-time monitoring of energy usage is possible through a dedicated mobile app.
o The cost of installation is not passed on to consumers but covered through energy savings.
o Installation is being carried out through outsourced agencies.

In response to Congress MLA Amit Deshmukh's inquiry about underground cabling and smart meters, Fadnavis affirmed the state’s commitment to modernizing the power infrastructure. He also clarified that there were no reports of inflated electricity bills among smart meter users, and the rollout continues as planned.

With these reforms, the Maharashtra government aims to enhance energy efficiency, promote clean power, and protect consumers from steep tariff hikes, while strengthening the overall power infrastructure in the state.