Jammu and Kashmir is poised for rapid expansion in rooftop solar power following the achievement of a 100 MW milestone, with Union Power Secretary Pankaj Aggarwal describing the Union Territory as being at the “take-off stage” under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
Aggarwal made the remarks during his visit to Srinagar on October 3, where he reviewed the implementation of the rooftop solar programme and interacted with beneficiaries at a Seva Setu Abhiyan camp organised at Jogger’s Park, Rajbagh.
The Power Secretary said the Union Territory had made a positive beginning but needed sustained efforts to accelerate household adoption and strengthen the renewable energy ecosystem.
His visit also focused on the progress of the Centre’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) and other initiatives aimed at improving electricity distribution and infrastructure.
PM Surya Ghar Scheme Driving Solar Expansion
The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a central government initiative designed to encourage households to install rooftop solar systems and reduce their dependence on conventional electricity.
Under the programme, eligible residential consumers receive central financial assistance for installing rooftop solar panels.
Aggarwal said the subsidy mechanism was functioning smoothly in Jammu and Kashmir, helping beneficiaries access financial support for solar installations.
He also indicated that the possibility of additional financial assistance from the Union Territory government could be discussed to encourage wider participation.
The initiative is expected to help households reduce electricity expenses while contributing to clean energy generation.
Rooftop Solar Capacity Crosses Major Milestone
Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a steady increase in rooftop solar installations under the programme.
According to figures presented by the Union Territory’s Power Development Department in July 2026, rooftop solar systems had been installed for 37,138 residential consumers, representing a cumulative capacity of 133.40 MW.
The installations had enabled beneficiaries to receive Rs 291.38 crore in central financial assistance, alongside Rs 10.50 crore in additional UT subsidy.
The latest 100 MW milestone highlighted in the Power Secretary’s visit reflects the expansion of decentralised solar generation across the region.
The programme is also creating opportunities for local solar vendors, installation agencies and technicians.
Central Subsidy Flow Remains Smooth
During his interaction with beneficiaries, Aggarwal acknowledged the importance of timely subsidy disbursement in encouraging households to adopt rooftop solar systems.
The central financial assistance available under PM Surya Ghar is intended to reduce the initial investment required for installation.
Officials have also been working to improve coordination among electricity distribution companies, vendors and implementing agencies to ensure that installations and inspections are completed without unnecessary delays.
The smooth flow of subsidies is considered an important factor in maintaining consumer confidence and accelerating the programme.
Government Buildings Also Under Solarisation Drive
Apart from residential rooftops, Jammu and Kashmir is expanding solar power generation across government buildings.
The Union Territory has undertaken solarisation projects through both capital expenditure and Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) models.
In July, officials reported that 8,131 government buildings had been equipped with rooftop solar systems out of 22,494 identified buildings.
The government has also been pursuing smart metering and improvements in electricity distribution infrastructure to ensure efficient utilisation of solar-generated power.
These measures are part of the wider effort to strengthen energy management and reduce dependence on conventional electricity sources.
Power Sector Reforms Under RDSS
Aggarwal’s visit also included a review of work under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme, which aims to improve the financial and operational efficiency of electricity distribution companies.
The scheme focuses on reducing aggregate technical and commercial losses, strengthening distribution infrastructure and improving billing and collection efficiency.
For Jammu and Kashmir, these reforms are particularly relevant as the region works to improve electricity supply and manage seasonal demand.
Officials have emphasised the need for coordinated implementation between the Power Development Department and the distribution companies.
J&K Looks Towards Faster Renewable Energy Adoption
With rooftop solar capacity expanding and government buildings increasingly adopting solar systems, Jammu and Kashmir is seeking to accelerate its transition towards renewable energy.
The PM Surya Ghar programme provides an opportunity for households to generate electricity locally, reduce monthly bills and contribute to cleaner energy production.
Aggarwal’s assessment that J&K is at the take-off stage signals the importance of maintaining implementation momentum through consumer awareness, timely subsidies and stronger institutional coordination.
As adoption increases, the Union Territory’s rooftop solar programme is expected to play a growing role in its long-term energy planning and electricity sustainability.