Chhattisgarh government revises Half Electricity Bill Scheme; promotes solar energy for self-reliance

The Chhattisgarh government has revised its flagship Half Electricity Bill Scheme, rationalising the monthly relief limit for domestic consumers.

Under the revised guidelines, consumers will now receive 50% relief on electricity consumption up to 100 units per month, replacing the earlier provision of relief on up to 400 units.

Officials said the change is aimed at streamlining benefits while continuing to support the state’s most vulnerable households.

Of the nearly 45 lakh domestic consumers in Chhattisgarh, around 31 lakh households—nearly 70%—consume less than 100 units of electricity per month and will continue to benefit from the revised scheme.

This includes 15 lakh families living Below the Poverty Line (BPL), who will still receive up to 30 units of electricity free of cost. Additionally, they will remain eligible for all other benefits previously available under the scheme.

Solar power push under PM Surya Ghar Yojana

Parallel to the revision in the electricity relief scheme, the state is actively promoting the PM Surya Ghar Yojana to help households transition to rooftop solar power generation.

The scheme offers significant subsidies—jointly funded by the Centre and State governments—to encourage solar adoption.

- A 1 kW rooftop solar plant, which generates around 120 units/month, comes with ₹45,000 in subsidies (₹30,000 from Centre and ₹15,000 from State), reducing the consumer cost to about ₹15,000.

- A 2 kW system, producing approximately 240 units/month, receives ₹90,000 in total subsidy, with the consumer contributing just ₹30,000.

- For a 3 kW plant, which can produce up to 360 units/month, the total subsidy reaches ₹1,08,000 (₹78,000 from Centre + ₹30,000 from State). The consumer’s share stands at ₹72,000, which can be financed through bank loans.

Authorities said consumers installing 2 kW or larger systems will generate more than 200 units monthly for the next 25 years—effectively exceeding the relief previously granted under the Half Bill Scheme. Additionally, surplus energy can be supplied to the grid for extra income.

From subsidy to self-reliance

The government’s strategic shift aims to gradually transition consumers from subsidised electricity to complete self-reliance through solar energy. "Urja-Datas" or energy self-producers are expected to play a key role in driving Chhattisgarh’s clean energy goals, while reducing monthly household expenses and contributing to environmental sustainability.

Officials added that the revised policy framework not only ensures affordability and long-term savings for citizens but also marks a move toward a greener and more self-sufficient energy ecosystem.