JNM | Journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
Jammu & Kashmir has carved a distinct niche for itself nationwide by creating history in the clean and green energy sector. The Union Territory secured the second position across the country in the implementation of rooftop solar projects under the ‘PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana’ (Free Electricity Scheme) as of May 2026. This achievement not only highlights the region’s growing capacity in the energy sector but is also viewed as a significant step towards reducing reliance on conventional energy sources.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, conferred this honor upon Jammu & Kashmir during a national event held in New Delhi. Mahmood Ahmad Shah, Managing Director of the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), received the award on behalf of the region.
Rapid Surge in Solar Energy Adoption Over the Year
Although the ground-level implementation of the PM Surya Ghar scheme in Jammu & Kashmir began in July 2024, public interest has grown rapidly since then. A total of 98,601 applications from the region have been registered on the national portal so far; this includes 29,402 applications from the Jammu region and 69,184 from the Kashmir region.
Based on these applications, rooftop solar systems have been successfully installed in 33,987 households to date. These installations comprise 12,730 units in the Jammu division and 21,255 in the Kashmir division. A remarkable 77 percent increase in the number of solar installations was recorded in May 2026 compared to May 2025.
Energy Capacity Boosted by Over 121 Megawatts
The expansion of rooftop solar projects has increased Jammu & Kashmir’s renewable energy capacity by 121.61 megawatts. The Jammu region contributed 44.68 megawatts to this total, while the Kashmir region contributed 76.92 megawatts. According to energy experts, this growth will play a crucial role in meeting future electricity demands while also contributing to environmental conservation and the reduction of carbon emissions. It is also expected to provide relief to ordinary consumers regarding their electricity bills.
Financial Assistance Worth Crores Reaches Beneficiaries
Under the scheme, central financial assistance amounting to ₹258.18 crore has so far been transferred directly into the accounts of beneficiaries in Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, the Union Territory administration has provided a supplementary subsidy of ₹10 crore.
Another key feature of the scheme is the availability of loans at low interest rates. Beneficiaries are being provided with bank loans at interest rates of up to 6 percent. Jammu & Kashmir Bank has emerged as a major financial partner in this initiative.
Over 45,000 Loan Applications
The growing interest among the people of the region in installing rooftop solar systems is evident from the fact that 45,321 loan applications have been received so far. Of these, 27,075 applications have either been approved or have had loans disbursed against them.
Result of Collective Efforts
According to officials, this achievement is the outcome of the collective efforts of the Power Development Department, district administration, empanelled vendors, banking institutions, and ordinary consumers. The government aims to make power generation self-reliant and eco-friendly by bringing solar energy to as many households as possible.
This achievement by Jammu and Kashmir is not only a major success for the region’s energy sector but also demonstrates that steps taken towards clean energy can propel the region to new heights of energy self-reliance in the coming years.
