“Uttar Pradesh is transforming rural life with its solar village initiative, providing free electricity to thousands of homes. Under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, villages like Barabanki are adopting rooftop solar systems, reducing bills and promoting sustainability. The scheme aims to empower rural communities, boost economic independence, and align with India’s renewable energy goals.”
Uttar Pradesh Pioneers Solar-Powered Villages for Free Electricity
In a significant push towards sustainable energy, Uttar Pradesh is leading the charge in India’s rural solar revolution. The state has embraced the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, a central government scheme aimed at installing rooftop solar systems in one crore households nationwide. In UP, this initiative is turning remote villages into solar-powered hubs, offering free electricity up to 300 units per month to residents and transforming their socio-economic landscape.
Barabanki district is at the forefront of this transformation, with plans to become the state’s first district to establish a solar park under the scheme. Announced in July 2025, the project will integrate solar panels on residential rooftops and public institutions, ensuring round-the-clock clean energy. This follows the success of pilot projects in villages like Masali in Gujarat, which became India’s first border solar village in December 2024, generating 100% of its electricity through solar power.
The PM Surya Ghar Yojana, launched in 2024, has gained remarkable traction in UP. Over 1.28 crore households have registered nationwide, with UP contributing significantly to the 14 lakh applications received by July 2024. The scheme provides up to 60% subsidies for installing 1-3 kW solar systems, making it accessible for rural families. In UP’s villages, this has translated into tangible benefits: zero electricity bills, surplus energy sold back to the grid, and enhanced livelihoods for farmers, weavers, and small entrepreneurs.
In villages like those in Mandya, Karnataka, which are part of a similar model solar village competition, residents have reported improved productivity. Women weavers, previously hindered by power outages, now work extended hours using solar-powered looms, boosting their income. In UP, similar stories are emerging. For instance, in rural areas of Barabanki, farmers are adopting solar pumps under the KUSUM-B scheme, reducing reliance on costly diesel pumps and saving up to ₹3,000 monthly.
The initiative also addresses energy poverty in tribal and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) communities. Under the PM JANMAN and PM JUGA schemes, approved in October 2024, one lakh tribal households in UP and other states will receive 0.3 kW solar systems. Additionally, 1,500 multi-purpose centers and 2,000 public institutions in tribal areas will be electrified, ensuring reliable power in regions where grid connectivity is challenging.
However, challenges persist. Maintenance of solar systems remains a concern, as highlighted by a 2023 report stating that many mini-grids in India have fallen into disrepair due to inadequate upkeep. In UP, the government is addressing this by forming task force committees in each solar village, led by panchayat development officers. These committees ensure proper installation, maintenance, and community awareness, aiming for long-term sustainability.
The economic impact is profound. In Modhera, Gujarat, a pioneer solar village, residents save 60-100% on electricity bills and earn by selling surplus power. UP aims to replicate this model, with villages like those in Barabanki expected to generate employment through solar-related projects. The state’s efforts align with India’s goal to meet 50% of its energy demands from renewables by 2030, with UP contributing to the national target of 40 GW of rooftop solar capacity.
Environmental benefits are equally significant. Solar villages reduce reliance on fossil fuels, cutting carbon emissions and supporting India’s net-zero goal by 2070. In UP, the shift to solar is also improving education, with children studying under reliable lighting, replacing hazardous kerosene lanterns. The state’s push for solar villages is not just about electricity—it’s about empowering communities, fostering economic independence, and building a sustainable future.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports, government announcements, and reliable sources covering India’s solar initiatives. Information is accurate as of September 2025, but project developments may evolve. Readers are advised to verify details through official government portals like pmsuryaghar.gov.in for the latest updates.