Team Blitz India
MUMBAI: Maharashtra is witnessing a major shift in its energy infrastructure. The state is increasing its investment in renewable energy exponentially, with a special focus on solar power.
With the Integrated Non-Conventional Energy General Policy in place till March 31, 2025, the state plans to ramp up its solar power generation from 1.90 gw to 12 gw by next year. This is a significant move away from previous initiatives, which were primarily focused on harnessing wind energy.
The Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (MEDA) is working on a new policy that will bring in technologies such as ‘hybrid storage’, aiming to shape the future of renewable energy. The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Co Ltd (MSEDCL) will also come up with a framework for grid support charges for net metering systems. This will help rooftop solar systems smoothly become part of the power grid.
MSEDCL’s initiative is a big hit with people. Over 100,000 consumers in the state have already installed rooftop solar power units. Not only does this mean that they save big on their electricity bills, but it also takes some pressure off the power grid, according to officials.
In urban centres, housing societies are enjoying the perks of rooftop solar power, getting a 20 per cent subsidy and slashing their monthly power bills.
As per the scheme, on the total electricity bill, consumers can avail a deduction for their solar power usage. For a regular urban household using about 300 units per month, this means they only get charged for the remaining 150 units from the grid.
That’s good news for consumers and housing societies, making monthly electricity costs a bit lighter. By the end of 2024, Maharashtra is aiming to become a major player in India’s solar energy scene, playing a crucial role in meeting the country’s growing energy needs.
