The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has announced a call for proposals under the “Innovative Projects” component of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. The participating organisations are required to submit their proposal aligned with the following objectives: fostering innovations in business models and technical deployment of rooftop solar systems, conducting collaborative pilots and scaling up new models, and introducing cutting-edge technologies in real-world settings. Additionally, it also includes developing technological and managerial tools that help discoms better integrate and manage distributed energy resources within their grids. Eligible applicants include research and development (R&D) institutions, accredited engineering colleges, both public and private industries, registered trusts and societies, NGOs, startups recognised by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, and organisations involved in renewable energy R&D. Project proposals should align with one or more thrust areas such as blockchain-based peer-to-peer rooftop trading, electric vehicle integration, hybrid systems, smart grids, community models, disaster-resilient installations, and AI-driven optimisation.
Proposals will be evaluated based on relevance, technical feasibility, novelty, societal value, support of discom/regulatory commission and the technology readiness level. The financial assistance is capped at 60 per cent of the total project cost or Rs 300 million, whichever is lower. Up to 50 per cent of the assistance (excluding institutional overheads) may be released initially for equipment procurement, with higher upfront release possible if equipment costs exceed half of the project value. Overhead charges are restricted to 8 per cent or Rs 1.5 million, whichever is lower. These charges will only be released upon project completion and approval by the monitoring committee. Projects are to be completed within 18 months from the date of issue of the letter of award, with extensions subject to the selection committee’s approval. The National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) is the scheme’s implementing agency and will monitor fund utilisation, implementation milestones, and reporting compliance.
Applications must be submitted online through the NISE portal by July 29, 2025. No physical applications will be accepted. Proposals should clearly state objectives, methodology, deliverables, and performance indicators. Submissions must also include the project investigator profiles, institutional details, and cost estimates with detailed breakup among various components with justification. Participating industries are required to demonstrate internal capability to commercialise outcomes by showing their readiness to invest in production or testing lines, develop necessary infrastructure, and bring in design and engineering expertise. Intellectual property issues will be governed by Department of Science and Technology and Ministry of Finance guidelines. Projects must maintain separate bank accounts, and unutilised grants along with accrued interest must be returned as per financial rules. The MNRE reserves the right to amend guidelines and terminate projects for non-compliance or inadequate progress.
