(a) whether the Government proposes to introduce a solar based technology scheme to promote the industry in this sector;
(b) if so, the details thereof along with the aims and objectives of the proposed scheme;
(c) the allocations provided under this scheme, state-wise; and
(d) the steps taken proposed to be taken to initiate/implement this scheme?
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR POWER, COAL & NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) (SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL)
(a)&(b): The Government is taking the following major steps to promote solar energy industry:
i. Fiscal and financial incentives in the form of accelerated depreciation, concessional/nil customs and excise duties, preferential tariffs and generation based incentives are being provided to improve viability of solar power generation units.
ii. An enabling policy and regulatory environment is being created through measures like solar specific RPOs under National Tariff Policy {0.25% in Phase 1 (2013) to increase to 3% by 2022}, State Specific Solar Policies and RPO targets, and REC mechanism.
iii. Capital subsidy is being provided for off-grid/decentralized solar power generation systems.
iv. Solar Parks are being planned in various parts of the country to achieve cost reductions of solar power generation units through utilization of common infrastructure.
v. A scheme for promotion of grid-connected roof-top PV systems with a provision for 30% subsidy has also been formulated.
vi. The R&D in solar is also being encouraged. Ministry provides financial support to industry for R&D project.
(c): The allocation of the scheme wise budget for solar energy in MNRE for Financial year 2014-15 is given below:
Fund are released to State Nodal Agencies and other in accordance with proposals received from them.
Schemes Budget Estimate (B.E.) (Rs. In crores) Grid Interactive Solar Power 750 Off-Grid/Distributed and 788 Decentralized Solar Power Research and Development in Solar 45 National Institute of Solar 80 Energy and Solar Energy Corporation