Tamil Nadu Challenges New Conditions on Free Solar Power Scheme

The Tamil Nadu government has requested the central government not to impose new conditions on the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. State Electricity Minister V Senthil Balaji noted that any agreement signed should ensure practical and achievable targets, emphasizing a collaborative approach with the state's agencies.

The Tamil Nadu government has expressed concerns over new stipulations under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, arguing that these changes could threaten the scheme's viability. State Electricity Minister V Senthil Balaji highlighted that any agreement should allow targets to be mutually set, ensuring they are realistic and attainable.

The initiative, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February, seeks to offer free electricity by subsidizing the cost of solar panel installations. However, the Ministry of Power's recent mandate for a Memorandum of Understanding with state-specific targets has sparked opposition from Tamil Nadu.

During a meeting in the capital, Balaji called for the interest rate on related loans from REC and PFC to be reduced, reflecting Tamil Nadu's commitment to enhancing its power infrastructure. The state also seeks approvals for proposals worth Rs 3,246 crore for system modernization.

(With inputs from agencies.)