Nearly 11,000 electricity consumers in western Odisha reported “zero electricity bills” in March 2026 after installing rooftop solar systems.
The shift has been enabled under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which promotes clean and affordable energy solutions for households.
Officials confirmed that 10,885 households recorded zero bills during the month, highlighting the growing success of decentralised solar power adoption in the region.
Rapid Growth in Rooftop Solar Installations
According to TP Western Odisha Distribution Ltd (TPWODL), a total of 18,830 consumers had installed rooftop solar systems by March 2026.
The expansion has been driven by the company’s 1-kW Utility Led Aggregation (ULA) model, which simplifies installation and reduces upfront costs for consumers. The initiative reflects a broader transition toward self-reliant and sustainable energy usage.
Major Reduction in Power Bills
Data shows that around 60% of consumers with rooftop solar installations are now receiving zero electricity bills. The remaining 40% have reduced their monthly expenses by over 80%.
In March alone, 1,428 additional households joined the zero-bill category, demonstrating the immediate financial benefits of solar energy adoption.
Subsidies Make Solar Affordable
Under the scheme, financial assistance significantly lowers the cost of installation:
- A 3 kW system costing around ₹2 lakh can receive subsidies up to ₹1.38 lakh
- A 2 kW system costing about ₹1.40 lakh can receive up to ₹1.10 lakh
Additionally, under TPWODL’s special 1 kW ULA model, eligible consumers can install rooftop solar systems by paying as little as ₹1,875 upfront.
Long-Term Benefits and Smart Integration
The company provides a five-year warranty on equipment and a 25-year performance warranty on solar panels, ensuring long-term reliability.
All systems are integrated with smart meters, allowing accurate tracking of energy generation and consumption. This ensures seamless coordination between household usage and solar power production.
Shift Towards Sustainable Energy
The rising adoption of rooftop solar systems in Odisha signals a significant move toward clean energy and reduced dependence on conventional power sources. The initiative not only lowers electricity costs but also contributes to environmental sustainability.
