Gujarat, a pioneer in solar rooftop installations among Indian residences, has witnessed a substantial impact on power bills, with 43% of households experiencing a monthly reduction of at least Rs 1,000, according to a recent study. The comprehensive assessment, a collaboration between MS University in Vadodara and Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GUVNL), focused on the socio-economic effects of the solar rooftop initiative, known as “Surya Gujarat.”
GUJARAT: Released during the National Conclave on Solar Rooftop in Ahmedabad, the study encompassed responses from 58,173 participants. It delved into various aspects, including cost savings, environmental benefits, accessibility, affordability, and overall satisfaction among residents who embraced rooftop solar systems.
The findings highlighted that financial savings served as the primary motivation for renewable energy adoption, particularly among service class individuals. Notably, 95% of homes with solar rooftop installations had an annual income below Rs 10 lakh. The report emphasized that 43% of respondents experienced a noteworthy reduction of at least Rs 1,000 in their electricity bills.
Kanu Desai, the state cabinet minister for energy and petrochemicals, shared insights at the conclave, noting that Gujarat’s per capita energy consumption is double the national average. He disclosed that, as of November 2023, residential rooftop installations in the state generated approximately 4,900 million units (MUs), preventing 35 lakh metric tons of carbon emissions.
Desai also highlighted the economic benefits, stating, “Gujarat residents have collectively saved about Rs 2,000 crore on their energy bills and earned around Rs 300 crore by injecting 1,267 MUs surplus into the grid.”
The study underscored the remarkable success of Gujarat’s solar rooftop scheme in not only reducing power bills but also contributing significantly to environmental conservation and financial gains for residents.
Follow and Connect with us: Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, Instagram
