The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued detailed operational guidelines for the release of Central Financial Assistance (CFA) under the Utility Led Aggregation (ULA) model of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. This directive follows the Ministry’s earlier Office Memorandum dated 28.12.2024, aimed at streamlining the implementation of rooftop solar (RTS) projects under the scheme.
Key highlights of the fund release mechanism are as follows:
- Release of CFA Post Commissioning: The CFA will be disbursed in a single tranche, strictly contingent upon the successful physical installation, inspection, and commissioning of the RTS systems. No advance payments will be allowed.
- Process on the National Portal: State, Utility, or Implementing Agencies are required to issue work orders or execution agreements to selected vendors and upload verified consumer installation data and vendor bank details on the National Portal. Following physical verification and commissioning, the “ULA Redeem” option will be used to initiate CFA disbursement with detailed consumer- and vendor-wise records.
- Verification and Payment by NPIA: The National Power Implementation Agency (NPIA) will verify installation reports and vendor bank details before directly releasing CFA payments to vendors. Notifications will be sent to concerned State/Utility/Implementing Agencies, ensuring transparency in fund disbursement.
- Changes in Vendor Details: Any updates or modifications in vendor bank details must be routed through NPIA for verification to maintain accuracy and transparency.
- Uniform Applicability: This payment mechanism applies uniformly across all ULA model proposals, including Utility Owned (EPC and sub-RESCO) and Consumer Owned models.
All ULA Implementing Agencies and State/UT entities are directed to strictly adhere to these procedures without deviation to ensure transparent and timely utilization of CFA funds.
The guidelines have been issued with the approval of the Hon’ble Minister of New and Renewable Energy.
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