Maharashtra Launches World Largest Rooftop Solar Programme

The Maharashtra government has launched the Mukhyamantri Saur Krishi Vahini Yojana Phase 2, the world largest state-level rooftop solar programme, targeting installation of 7 gigawatts of rooftop solar capacity across 1.4 million households and 80,000 commercial establishments over three years. The scheme provides zero-cost loans for residential installations repayable over 15 years through electricity bill savings, making upfront cost a non-barrier for low-income families. Rooftop solar installations under the scheme will feed excess power into the grid at a guaranteed rate of Rs 3.50 per unit, creating passive income for households. Maharashtra Energy Development Agency has empanelled 1,200 certified solar installers across all 36 districts. Officials project the programme will reduce Maharashtra annual carbon emissions by 12 million tonnes and create 85,000 green energy jobs.