Short Answer

Yes, a society can pay for the installation of amenities like solar panels by raising maintenance or special charges.

Detailed Explanation

Section 61 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 empowers a cooperative society to raise funds for various purposes, including the installation of amenities like solar panels. This section allows the society to collect charges from its members for maintenance and other services. The society can decide to levy special charges for specific projects such as installing solar panels to enhance the amenities provided to its members.

Rule 69 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965 further elaborates on the collection of charges by the society. It provides guidelines on how the society can determine and collect maintenance charges, special charges, or any other fees from its members. The rule ensures transparency and accountability in the collection and utilization of funds for various purposes, including the installation of amenities.

In practice, if a cooperative society decides to install solar panels to improve energy efficiency and reduce utility costs, it can propose a budget for the project. The society can then hold a general body meeting to discuss and approve the budget, including the allocation of funds for the installation of solar panels. Once approved, the society can raise maintenance or special charges from its members to fund the project.

Real-world Scenarios

• Scenario 1: XYZ Cooperative Housing Society decides to install solar panels on its rooftop to reduce electricity bills. The society holds a meeting, proposes a budget for the project, and obtains approval from the members. Subsequently, the society raises special charges to cover the cost of installing solar panels.

• Scenario 2: ABC Cooperative Society plans to upgrade its amenities by installing a rainwater harvesting system. The society informs its members about the project, discusses the budget at a general body meeting, and collects additional maintenance charges to fund the installation.

Reference

• Section 61 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961

• Rule 69 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965