The central government has approved the installation of one point three million (mn) rooftop solar systems across 10 states and Union Territories under the Utility-Led Aggregation model to accelerate residential solar adoption under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. The projects are expected to add around four point nine gigawatt (GW) of rooftop solar capacity and will be implemented through distribution companies, involving an estimated investment of Rs 85 billion (bn). Officials said the approvals mark a significant step towards decentralised clean energy and lowering household electricity bills.

The Utility-Led Aggregation model allows distribution companies or designated agencies to aggregate consumer demand and oversee large scale rooftop solar deployment, reducing upfront complexity for households and streamlining implementation. Authorities indicated the model can standardise vendor selection, simplify procurement and yield savings through economies of scale. The approach is designed to shift execution and quality control to experienced utilities while simplifying consumer onboarding.

The approved states and Union Territories include Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Lakshadweep. The plan is expected to broaden renewable uptake in regions where rooftop penetration has been low and to improve electricity access in remote and hilly districts. Implementation by discoms is intended to leverage existing networks and customer databases to target installations efficiently.

The move forms part of the Centre's broader target of installing rooftop solar systems in 10 million (mn) households under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, aimed at increasing decentralised power generation and reducing dependence on conventional fuels. Officials said the programme should contribute to lower consumer bills and a more resilient grid while promoting private sector participation in the rooftop market. Monitoring and standardisation provisions are expected to guide rollout and ensure technical compliance.