Centre Mandates Aadhaar Authentication for PM Surya Ghar Rooftop Solar Subsidy

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has mandated Aadhaar authentication for beneficiaries seeking financial assistance under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, the government’s flagship rooftop solar initiative for households.

According to a government notification, applicants must undergo Aadhaar-based authentication or provide proof of possession of an Aadhaar number to avail subsidies under the scheme. Individuals who do not yet possess an Aadhaar number will be required to apply for enrolment to become eligible for the benefits.

The ministry has directed implementing agencies to support beneficiaries in enrolling for Aadhaar where necessary and assist in updating Aadhaar details. Agencies may coordinate with registrars or establish enrolment centres in accessible locations to facilitate the process.

Until an Aadhaar number is issued, applicants aged 18 years and above may establish their identity by submitting the Aadhaar enrolment acknowledgement containing the enrolment identification number along with a valid photo identity document. Acceptable documents include voter identity cards, passports, driving licences, ration cards, government-issued identity cards, or educational certificates issued by recognized boards.

The notification also outlines the verification process. A designated ministry officer will verify the Aadhaar enrolment identification number through the myAadhaar portal of the Unique Identification Authority of India to ensure that the enrolment request is valid and has not been rejected. Authorities may also cross-verify other supporting documents with relevant government databases.

In cases where Aadhaar authentication fails, alternative verification methods will be used. If biometric authentication through fingerprint, iris scan, or facial recognition is unsuccessful, the system may allow authentication through another biometric mode or a one-time password (OTP). When biometric or OTP authentication cannot be completed, officials may verify identity through offline methods such as scanning the Aadhaar secure QR code or using paperless offline e-KYC documents.

The scheme enables homeowners to receive subsidies through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism after installing rooftop solar systems.

Applicants registering on the portal must upload key documents, including their Aadhaar card, electricity bill, and bank account details. Aadhaar-linked verification helps ensure that subsidies reach the correct beneficiary and prevents identity fraud or duplicate claims.

Launched in 2024, the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana aims to accelerate rooftop solar adoption by supporting installation of solar systems in around one crore households across India, enabling them to generate electricity and receive subsidies.