The Union Cabinet of India has recently given its consensus for Phase-II of the Grid Connected Rooftop Solar Programme. The core objective is to attain a cumulative capacity of 40,000 MW from Rooftop Solar Projects by the year 2022. The Central Financial Assistance (CFA) for developing 4000 MW capacity under the residential category will be accountable on the basis of the benchmark cost or tender cost, whichever is lesser in value.
Central Financial Support: Exceptions
In contrast to the residential category, different categories such as institutional, educational, social, government bodies, commercial and industrial entities will not be eligible for central financial support.
Role enhancement of Distribution Companies in Phase-II Programme
The enhanced role of distribution companies (DISCOMs) is an essential facet of the Phase-II Programme. Integrating a system of performance-based incentives for DISCOMs based on their achieved capacity within a fiscal year will witness execution. For seamless implementation of the programme, DISCOMs along with their local offices will serve as nodal points.
Environmental Impact and Employment Opportunities
The propelled initiative promises substantive environmental and employment benefits. The program envisions to create a considerable environmental impact via CO2 emission savings. With the addition of 38 GW solar rooftop plants under Phase-II by the year 2022, it is projected to result in a stunning reduction of CO2 emissions by about 45.6 tonnes per year. On the employment front, the deployment of this program is likely to provide abundant job opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers owing to the addition of 38GW by 2022.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cumulative Capacity Target | 40,000 MW by 2022 |
| Central Financial Support | Available for residential segment for developing 4000 MW capacity |
| Environmental Benefit | Reduction of CO2 emissions by about 45.6 tonnes per year |
| Employment Generation | Job opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers |
Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar Programme
The Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar Programme employs a system where the direct current (DC) power generated from the SPV panel is converted to alternating current (AC) power using a power conditioning unit and is fed to the grid. The paramount objectives include promoting the grid-connected SPV rooftop and small SPV power plants among varied establishments; mitigating reliance on fossil fuel-based electricity generation and encouraging eco-friendly solar electricity production; creating a conducive atmosphere for investments from the private sector, state governments and individuals; and, fostering an environment for the supply of solar power from rooftop and small plants to the grid.
