Regional Cities Lead Rooftop Solar Rush; Lucknow, Nagpur Outshine Metros
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · IR
Why in news
India's rooftop solar installations have crossed 40 lakh, with regional cities like Lucknow and Nagpur leading the growth, surpassing major metros. This marks a significant shift in clean energy adoption, expanding to nearly 49 lakh households and adding 14,416 MW capacity.
Background
The government has been promoting rooftop solar under schemes like the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana to boost renewable energy and reduce electricity bills. Historically, metro cities led adoption, but recent trends show regional cities taking the lead.
Key facts
India has over 40 lakh rooftop solar installations across the country.
Nearly 49 lakh households have adopted rooftop solar.
Total installed rooftop solar capacity is 14,416 MW.
Regional cities like Lucknow and Nagpur are leading the growth, outshining metro cities.
The growth is driven by government schemes and falling solar panel costs.
Prelims pointers
- PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana
- Rooftop Solar Programme
- 14,416 MW rooftop solar capacity
- 40 lakh installations
- 49 lakh households
Mains angles
- Discuss the role of rooftop solar in achieving India's renewable energy targets.
- Analyze the factors driving rooftop solar adoption in regional cities vs metros.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of government schemes in promoting decentralized solar power.