Set to Receive ₹1 Crore Incentive
Shimla, April 6: Mehli Gram Panchayat in Shimla district has been selected to be developed as a Model Solar Village under the PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme, Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap announced on Monday.
The decision was taken during a district-level review meeting chaired by the Deputy Commissioner. Initially, ten panchayats—including Tyaal, Chhakdail, Dutt Nagar, Kitbari, Parhech, Shingala, Sarahan, Kumarsain, Bonda, and Mehli—were shortlisted under the scheme. However, Mehli emerged as the only panchayat to complete all required formalities within the stipulated deadline of February 28, 2026.
As a result, Mehli will now be developed as a Model Solar Village and will receive a financial incentive of ₹1 crore under the Aadarsh Solar Village component.
So far, 657 applications have been received in the district under the scheme. Of these, 231 rooftop solar projects have been installed, generating a total capacity of 803 kW. Inspections for all 231 installations have been completed, while subsidies have been disbursed for 204 projects.
The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the need to expand awareness and public participation in the scheme, noting its potential to empower households through renewable energy adoption. Panchayats will also receive a one-time incentive of ₹1,000 for each solar rooftop installation, further encouraging grassroots-level promotion.
Under the scheme, residential consumers can avail up to 60% subsidy for solar units up to 2 kW and 40% subsidy for additional capacity up to 3 kW, with total benefits reaching approximately ₹85,000.
The scheme, approved by the Central Government in February 2024, aims to boost rooftop solar capacity and promote energy self-reliance. It is being implemented in Himachal Pradesh by Himurja in coordination with the State Electricity Department.
Officials, including Project Officer Ashok Sharma, were also present during the meeting.
