Solar Power Subsidy Scheme (State/ UT Goa)

The Solar Power Subsidy Scheme was introduced in 2018 under Goa's Information Technology Policy. It is run by the Department of Information Technology, Government of Goa, and is intended to build a sustainable, technology-driven ecosystem for IT Units in the state.

The scheme extends support to IT businesses in Goa, whether newly set up or already operating, and encourages them to meet their energy needs entirely through solar power. It forms part of Goa's wider goal of establishing itself as a leading base of geography and human resources for IT companies, drawing in investment and helping such companies grow.

By covering part of the capital expenditure involved in solar power generation, the government looks to bring down operating costs for IT firms, advance environmental sustainability, and reinforce the state's standing as a preferred location for high-tech industries.

The subsidy serves as a substantial incentive for businesses to shift towards renewable energy, which in turn supports a greener economy and a more resilient energy infrastructure across Goa.

- **Step 1: Register on the Goa Online Portal:** Go to the official Goa Online web portal (goaonline.gov.in) and select "Register" at the top right of the page. An OTP sent to your email ID and mobile number must be verified before you can reach the registration page. - **Step 2: Complete Registration:** Enter details in every mandatory field of the registration form, set up your login credentials (Login Name and Password), read and accept the Declaration and Terms & Conditions, fill in the Captcha, then click "Register/Signup". - **Step 3: Login to the Portal:** Log in to the Goa Online website with the Login Name and Password you have just created, entering the Captcha Code as well. - **Step 4: Access IT Services:** On the top ribbon, click "Services" and choose "IT Services". Find and click "Solar Power Subsidy Scheme" (or the name under which it appears) to open the application form. - **Step 5: Fill and Submit Application:** Provide details in all mandatory fields of the application form and upload every required supporting document. Submit the application once all information has been entered accurately. - **Step 6: Note Registration Number:** A unique registration number is generated on successful submission. Save this number to track your application status and for future reference. - **Note:** The IT Unit may submit applications under this scheme on a quarterly, bi-annual, or annual basis, after the relevant expenditure has been incurred.

Applications are first checked against a set checklist, a step that generally takes about 30 days from the date of receipt. The application then goes before an Empowered Committee for approval, usually around 60 days after it was received. Once sanction orders are issued, disbursements to eligible applicants are completed within roughly 90 days of the original submission. Approval under the scheme is granted on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to the budget available.