Kangra Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa announced that a model solar village would be established under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme. During the inaugural meeting of the District Level Coordination Committee (DLCC), Bairwa noted that the selected village would serve as a prototype for sustainable energy solutions, reflecting the district's commitment to green energy.

The selection process for this model solar village will prioritize villages with a population exceeding 2,000 that actively engage in non-conventional energy practices. Bairwa indicated that the government would allocate Rs 10 million to the chosen village to support its green energy initiatives.

Lists of eligible villages have already been distributed across the Kangra, Dehra, and Dalhousie circles of the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board. Bairwa stated that district officials have been directed to expedite the final selection process. Once a village is chosen, a dedicated 'Model Solar Village Implementation Agency' will be responsible for developing a detailed project report (DPR) to transform the village into a solar-powered community.

Bairwa further emphasized that the district is committed to ensuring the effective implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme to provide sustainable energy solutions in Kangra.

As part of this scheme, the government offers substantial subsidies for grid-connected rooftop solar power systems. Households installing systems of up to 3 kW can receive a 60 per cent subsidy for the first 2 kW (amounting to Rs 33,000 per kW) and a 40 per cent subsidy for an additional 1 kW, which amounts to Rs 19,800.

Residents can apply through the PM Surya Ghar online portal to participate in the scheme.