As per reports, about 400-odd consumers in Goa who have installed solar panels have not obtained the promised subsidy from the Centre and State since mid-Feb 2024 (The Goan 24.9.204). Under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, once the consumer applies on a common portal and the Centre releases the subsidy, the status gets updated simultaneously, and the State also releases its share of the subsidy. The subsidy is Rs.30,000 for 1 kW, Rs.30,000 for 2 kW, and Rs.78,000 and more for 3 kW.
Similarly, the use of EV vehicles is encouraged, but the Goa government stopped the subsidy last year, implemented it this year but with reduced amounts, and again stopped the disbursement to consumers who purchased EVs. Such flip-flops leave consumers frustrated, and many shy away from installing rooftop solar panels (though the prices have fallen) and buying EVs.
Since the announcements of subsidies are made, perhaps these are covered under “planned expenditures” and funds have been allocated to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy well in time. But this does not appear to be the case, considering the number of consumers waiting for subsidies in Goa (there could be more in the other States). On one hand, the use of green energy is promoted, while on the other hand, the promised grants are not released in time for unknown reasons.
