The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has launched a major green energy project — the Swayampurna Maharashtra Residential Rooftop (SMART) Scheme.
This initiative promises free electricity for 25 years to the state’s poorest families by using solar power.
The goal is simple — help low-income households save money, promote renewable energy, and make Maharashtra a leader in clean, sustainable power.
How the SMART Scheme Will Help Families
Under this scheme, 1-kilowatt rooftop solar panels will be installed on eligible homes.
Each setup can produce about 120 units of electricity every month, which is enough for families that use less than 100 units.
If a home generates more power than it needs, the extra electricity will be sold back to MSEDCL.
This means families can earn a small income while enjoying free power.
The project will be rolled out on a first-come, first-served basis.
Who Can Benefit and What Are the Subsidies?
The SMART Scheme has a total budget of ₹655 crore and aims to cover 5 lakh households, including 1.54 lakh BPL (Below Poverty Line) and 3.45 lakh EWS (Economically Weaker Section) families.
Both the Central and State Governments will share the cost through subsidies, making it almost free for beneficiaries:
BPL Consumers: ₹30,000 (Central) + ₹17,500 (State) = ₹47,500 subsidy
EWS Consumers: ₹30,000 (Central) + ₹10,000 (State) = ₹40,000 subsidy
SC/ST Consumers: ₹30,000 (Central) + ₹15,000 (State) = ₹45,000 subsidy
With this support, families will only pay a small remaining amount for 25 years of clean, free power.
A Step Toward a Cleaner, Independent Future
MSEDCL Chairman and Managing Director Lokesh Chandra said that the SMART scheme is about more than just reducing bills — it’s about achieving energy independence.
“This initiative ensures even the poorest households can access clean energy, cut their electricity costs, and contribute to a sustainable future,” he said.
The SMART scheme also supports the Pradhan Mantri Suryaghar Free Electricity Scheme, making solar power more accessible across India.
Lighting Up Lives with Solar Energy
By bringing solar energy to low-income homes, the SMART Scheme will:
Provide 25 years of free, sustainable power
Reduce pressure on the state’s electricity grid
Allow families to earn from surplus energy
Promote a cleaner, greener environment
With this initiative, Maharashtra takes a big step toward inclusive green growth, ensuring that renewable energy truly benefits everyone — right from the grassroots.
