A turning point towards green energy in Ludhiana arrived in the form of 771 houses switching to solar power in 2024, as the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) announced. This also indicates increasing eco-consciousness and the people’s reaction to the economic subsidies by the government.The scheme has been supported by large funding support, with PSPCL releasing ₹3.3 crore worth of subsidies till date. The funding injection has reduced the installation cost of solar, motivating individuals to switch. The subsidies are under a larger scheme until March 2027, and the aim is to encourage renewable energy throughout the district.
Regional Distribution of Subsidies
Geography of subsidies indicates a mixed rate of adoption in Ludhiana. The West Circle encompassing Aggar Nagar and Janta Nagar has been availing the highest amount with ₹1.38 crore. Next are the Sub-Urban Circle with ₹98 lakh, Khanna Circle with ₹70 lakh, and City East with ₹23.76 lakh. It indicates a fair uptake mostly in the more urbanised pockets of Ludhiana.
The demand for solar power can be gauged from the number of applications received – 823 applications were received, out of which 771 were installed successfully. This number says a lot about the demand and feasibility of solar power in Ludhiana, as most people realized the long-term advantage of reduced electricity bills and being eco-friendly.
The Bigger Picture
This is just one part of a wider wave of clean energy in India and Punjab. The popularity of solar power among these houses not only lowers their carbon footprint but also serves as an example to others. It is one step towards the realization of India’s ambitious renewable goals and demonstrates how small can help meet national goals.
The speed in Ludhiana guarantees a bright future for the adoption of solar energy. With ongoing support by PSPCL and perhaps other incentive schemes, more families can be expected to switch in the upcoming years. Success of this movement could also act as a harbinger for other districts to implement similar initiatives towards a cleaner India and a cleaner Punjab.
