Tata Power Odisha Discoms launch landmark 1-kW rooftop solar scheme under ULA model

₹5,000 Solar Power: Tata Power Odisha to light up 1.5 lakh homes

Odisha becomes first state to roll out rooftop solar under ULA model

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, SEPTEMBER 1, 2025

In a transformative push for clean energy adoption, the Tata Power-led Odisha Distribution Companies (Discoms) on Monday rolled out a pioneering one-kilowatt rooftop solar (RTS) scheme under the innovative Utility-Led Aggregation (ULA) model. The initiative is part of the Government of India’s flagship PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, aimed at making solar energy accessible and affordable to households across the state.

The ULA model has been designed to eliminate financial barriers for consumers, particularly middle-class and low-income families, who often find upfront investment in solar installations prohibitive. Typically, a 1 kW rooftop solar system costs between ₹65,000 and ₹75,000. Under this scheme, however, consumers only need to contribute a one-time payment of ₹5,000 along with the cost of a solar generation meter. The remaining expense is offset by central and state government subsidies — ₹30,000 from the Centre and ₹25,000 from the Odisha government — bringing down costs significantly.

In addition, the Discoms will provide a net meter free of charge, while ensuring complete end-to-end execution. From installation and quality checks to after-sales service, consumers will be covered with a five-year warranty on system components and a 25-year performance warranty on solar panels. By generating approximately 100 units of electricity per month, each household is expected to save nearly ₹5,000 annually on power bills.

Gajanan S Kale, Chief of Tata Power’s Odisha Distribution Business and CEO of TPNODL, described the scheme as a game changer for household energy security. “With a 1 kW rooftop solar system, families can enjoy consistent savings while actively supporting Odisha’s renewable energy ambitions. The process has been made extremely simple, requiring just a consent form and one-time payment, while our Discoms handle the rest,” he said.

Arvind Singh, CEO of TPCODL, announced that the scheme will be extended to 1.5 lakh consumers on a first-come-first-served basis. He expressed confidence that the model would accelerate the shift towards decentralized solar adoption across Odisha. Echoing his views, TPSODL CEO Amit Garg and TPWODL CEO Parveen Verma underlined that Odisha is the first state in India to implement this initiative under the ULA model, setting a precedent for the rest of the country.

The scheme marks a critical milestone in India’s clean energy journey by empowering households to become self-reliant power producers. It not only promises economic relief for families but also contributes to the broader goals of energy transition, carbon reduction, and sustainable growth. By placing solar energy within the reach of ordinary citizens, Tata Power Odisha Discoms are helping drive a renewable energy revolution from the grassroots.