(a) whether the Union Government proposes to encourage installation of more and more solar street lights in the country and if so, the details thereof;
(b) whether the Union Government proposes to increase the grants/incentives for setting up /installation of solar power panels in individual houses and if so, the details thereof; and
(c) whether any role is proposed to be assigned to private sector through incentives etc. in this regard and if so, the details thereof?
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR POWER, COAL & NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) (SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL)
(a): The Ministry is encouraging the installation of solar street lights in the country.
Under Off-grid and decentralized solar applications scheme of Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission, the Ministry provides 30% capital subsidy which ranges from ` 81/-per watt peak to ` 135/- per watt peak for installation of solar street lights.
In special category States and North Eastern States, Lakshadweep and A&N Islands including Uttarakhand, the Ministry provides 90% capital subsidy which ranges from ` 243/- watt peak to 405/-per watt peak for Government organizations (Not for commercial organizations and corporations) for installation of solar street lights.
A total of 274679 Solar street lights have been installed in various locations of the country.
(b): There is no proposal to increase the subsidy for installation of Off grid solar photovoltaic systems/power plants in individual households.
(c): The Ministry is implementing Off grid and decentralised solar photovoltaic applications scheme through various channel partners including private system integrators. They provide solar systems and services to clients including design, supply, integration and installation, and other services. They approach the Ministry directly for accessing subsidy.