J&K Govt Links 200-Unit Free Power Scheme to Rooftop Solar Project
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 28: The Jammu and Kashmir government has clarified that its promise of providing 200 units of free electricity to households will only come into effect after the completion of rooftop solar installations under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana.
Responding to a question raised by MLA Waheed Para, the government informed the Legislative Assembly that 2.22 lakh Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households are expected to benefit from the scheme. Each eligible family will receive a 2-kilowatt rooftop solar system, designed to generate clean energy and reduce electricity dependence on the grid.
Implementation Model and Progress
According to the official reply, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has already granted in-principle approval for the project, which will be executed through the RESCO/Utility-Led Aggregation (ULA) model.
The government said that Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) and the tendering process are underway, led by the respective DISCOMs. Once functional, the rooftop solar units will supply up to 200 units of free electricity per month to each eligible household.
Officials highlighted that the ULA model ensures financial sustainability and prevents potential revenue losses for the power distribution companies while promoting clean energy access for low-income families.
Reason Behind Delay
Explaining the delay in the rollout, the government cited ongoing procedural requirements, including the preparation of DPRs, tender finalization, and establishment of the ULA framework. These steps, it said, are essential for maintaining accountability and efficiency in implementation.
Smart Metering Update
The government further informed that a total of 6.52 lakh smart meters have been installed across Jammu and Kashmir, with 2.81 lakh installed during the last two years under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) and the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP).
No Privatisation, Assures Government
Refuting rumours about privatisation in the power sector, the government stated that there is no proposal to privatise the installation, maintenance, or operation of smart meters.
The ongoing work, it said, is being carried out by Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Providers (AMISPs) under the Design-Build-Finance-Own-Operate-Transfer (DBFOOT) model.
“These service providers are only responsible for project execution and operation under strict regulatory and contractual monitoring,” the statement added, reaffirming transparency and accountability in power sector reforms.
Clean Energy Push in J&K
The government underlined that integrating free electricity with rooftop solar generation represents a major step toward energy transition and self-reliance. The initiative aims to empower households, reduce dependence on conventional grids, and align Jammu and Kashmir’s energy roadmap with India’s green energy mission.
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