Maharashtra: Free Electricity for Poor Households for 25 Years Under MSEDCL’s SMART Scheme
Mumbai, 3rd November 2025: In a major initiative to promote renewable energy and support low-income households, Mahavitaran (Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited – MSEDCL) has launched the Swayampurna Maharashtra Residential Roof Top (SMART) Scheme to provide free electricity for 25 years to families below the poverty line (BPL) and those from economically weaker sections (EWS).
Under this scheme, one-kilowatt rooftop solar power generation units will be installed on eligible houses. Beneficiary consumers will pay only a minimal contribution, as the cost of the solar project will be largely covered through central and state government subsidies, said Lokesh Chandra, Chairman and Managing Director of MSEDCL.
The scheme has been initiated under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, with a financial provision of ₹655 crore to benefit five lakh households, including 1.54 lakh BPL and 3.45 lakh EWS consumers who use less than 100 units of electricity per month. The implementation will follow a first-come, first-served model. Instructions regarding execution were issued during a recent state-level meeting of Mahavitaran’s directors and chief engineers.
Central and State Subsidies
The initiative aligns with the Pradhan Mantri Suryaghar Free Electricity Scheme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under which the Central Government provides a ₹30,000 subsidy for each one-kilowatt rooftop solar project.
In addition to this, the State Government will offer further support under the SMART scheme:
BPL households: ₹30,000 subsidy from the Centre and ₹17,500 from the State.
Economically weaker households: ₹30,000 subsidy from the Centre and ₹10,000 from the State for general consumers.
Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe consumers: ₹30,000 subsidy from the Centre and ₹15,000 from the State.
Consumers will only need to bear the remaining cost of installation to enjoy free electricity for 25 years.
Long-Term Benefits
A one-kilowatt solar power system typically generates around 120 units of electricity per month, allowing households consuming up to 100 units to meet their energy needs independently. Any surplus power generated can be sold back to MSEDCL, creating an additional income stream for the beneficiaries.
As the solar panels have a lifespan of 25 years, the scheme ensures sustainable, long-term energy savings for low-income families while contributing to Maharashtra’s goal of becoming a self-reliant and green energy state.
