Mon Feb 23 15:16:31 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Andhra Pradesh District Leads in Rooftop Solar Adoption Under PM Surya Ghar Scheme
The Story:
Nellore district in Andhra Pradesh is emerging as a leader in the implementation of the ‘PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana’, a Union government initiative aimed at providing free electricity to one crore households through rooftop solar installations. According to the Andhra Pradesh Southern Power Distribution Company Limited (APSPDCL), over 40,000 households in Nellore have expressed interest in the scheme. A significant portion of this interest comes from 32,000 SC/ST households eligible for 100 percent subsidy. The district, already a frontrunner in consumer connections and grid-linked installed capacity within APSPDCL, is actively working towards increasing public awareness and streamlining the installation process.
Key Points:
- Over 40,000 households in Nellore district have shown interest in the ‘PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana’.
- 32,000 SC/ST households are eligible for 100% subsidy and have given consent letters.
- As of Monday, February 23, 2026, the PM Surya Ghar portal received 9,862 applications, with 6,018 applicants selecting vendors and uploading documents.
- 4,072 households have already commissioned solar systems, and 3,829 have received subsidies.
- Nellore Circle has a collective power generation system of 14.75 MW linked to the grid.
- The district is registering 300 new connections per month, with expectations for further increase.
Key Takeaways:
- The ‘PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana’ is gaining traction in Andhra Pradesh, particularly in Nellore district.
- Subsidies are a key driver in encouraging adoption, especially among SC/ST communities.
- Nellore district’s existing infrastructure and proactive implementation efforts are contributing to its leadership position in the scheme.
- Increased public awareness campaigns are crucial for further expansion of the rooftop solar program.
Impact Analysis:
The successful implementation of the ‘PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana’ in Nellore district has several significant long-term implications:
- Reduced Energy Costs: Households can significantly reduce their electricity bills by generating their own power through solar panels.
- Environmental Benefits: Increased reliance on solar energy reduces dependence on fossil fuels, contributing to a cleaner environment and mitigating climate change.
- Economic Growth: The scheme stimulates the local economy by creating jobs in the solar installation and maintenance sectors.
- Energy Independence: By promoting distributed generation, the scheme enhances energy security and reduces reliance on centralized power grids.
- Replicability: The success of the program in Nellore can serve as a model for other districts and states across India, accelerating the transition to renewable energy nationwide.