Goa's 63 villages are competing for the Model Solar Village title, a newly announced initiative likely tied to the state’s existing renewable energy programs. While specific competition criteria remain undisclosed, the effort aligns with Goa’s focus on decentralized solar adoption through schemes like the Rural Village Electrification program, which has already solar-electrified several remote households, with more in progress. The competition may incentivize villages to accelerate rooftop solar installations, leveraging enhanced subsidies offering significant support for residential systems and additional aid for larger setups.
The initiative complements Goa’s broader renewable push, including a solar plant nearing completion under the CAPEX model to power the Mormugao Port Authority, and a substantial rooftop solar target supported by revised subsidies for residential, institutional, and commercial sectors. By integrating grassroots participation with large-scale projects, the state aims to strengthen energy independence while meeting national renewable targets.