Everything you need to know about solar panel installation, costs, subsidies, and choosing the right installer in India
Everything you need to know — system types (on-grid, off-grid, hybrid), sizing for your home, costs, government subsidies, and the step-by-step installation process from application to commissioning.
Read More →Step-by-step guide to the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. Eligibility criteria, documents required, how to apply on the national portal, subsidy amounts (₹30,000-₹78,000), and how long it takes to receive the subsidy in your bank account.
Read More →A complete guide to finding reliable solar installers. MNRE empanelment verification, questions to ask, comparing quotes, checking past installations, and red flags to avoid.
Read More →Detailed breakdown of solar panel costs by system size (1kW to 10kW), city, and brand. Compare prices of Waaree, Tata, Adani, and Vikram Solar panels. Know the fair price before you invest.
Read More →Understand the differences between solar system types. Which one qualifies for subsidy? Which works during power cuts? Which saves the most money? A simple comparison to help you decide.
Read More →How to maintain your solar system for maximum output — cleaning schedules, monitoring tips, common problems (low generation, inverter errors), and when to call a professional.
Read More →Find the right solar system size for your home based on your monthly electricity consumption and budget. All prices include installation, GST, and are before PM Surya Ghar Yojana subsidy.
| System Size | Monthly Output | Best For | Roof Space | Cost (Before Subsidy) | Subsidy | Net Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1kW System | 100-120 units | 1BHK flat, small household with ₹800-1,200 monthly bill | ~100 sq ft | ₹60,000 - ₹85,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹30,000 - ₹55,000 |
| 2kW System | 200-240 units | 2BHK flat, medium household with ₹1,500-2,500 monthly bill | ~200 sq ft | ₹1,20,000 - ₹1,60,000 | ₹60,000 | ₹60,000 - ₹1,00,000 |
| 3kW System | 300-360 units | 3BHK flat, large household with ₹2,500-4,000 monthly bill | ~300 sq ft | ₹1,80,000 - ₹2,50,000 | ₹78,000 | ₹1,02,000 - ₹1,72,000 |
| 5kW System | 500-600 units | Large home/villa with AC, heavy usage, ₹5,000+ monthly bill | ~500 sq ft | ₹2,80,000 - ₹4,00,000 | ₹78,000 | ₹2,02,000 - ₹3,22,000 |
| 10kW System | 1,000-1,200 units | Bungalows, farmhouses, or small commercial establishments | ~1,000 sq ft | ₹5,50,000 - ₹7,50,000 | ₹78,000 | ₹4,72,000 - ₹6,72,000 |
* Prices are indicative and vary by city, brand, and installer. Get exact quotes from verified installers on our platform.
The central government subsidy under PM Surya Ghar Yojana is available across all states. Some states offer additional incentives. Here is a quick overview:
PM Surya Ghar Yojana
₹30,000/kW up to 2kW, ₹18,000/kW for 2-3kW. Maximum ₹78,000 for 3kW+
Surya Gujarat
Additional state subsidy for residential rooftop solar under Surya Gujarat scheme
MSEDCL Solar Rooftop
Net metering available up to sanctioned load. MSEDCL processes applications.
KSEB Soura
KSEB supports net metering. Soura Subsidy Scheme for BPL households.
TANGEDCO Solar Rooftop
TANGEDCO net metering available. Central subsidy applicable.
Karnataka Solar Policy
BESCOM, MESCOM, HESCOM net metering supported. Central subsidy applicable.
Rajasthan Solar Policy
Additional state incentives for rooftop solar. Strong solar irradiance.
Delhi Solar Policy
Generation-based incentive (GBI) of ₹2/unit for 3 years on top of central subsidy.
* State policies are updated frequently. Check with your local DISCOM or state nodal agency for the latest subsidy and net metering rules.
Cannot afford the full upfront cost? Multiple financing options make solar accessible to every Indian household:
SBI, PNB, Bank of Baroda, and other nationalized banks offer dedicated solar loans at 7-9% interest with repayment up to 10 years. Some offer collateral-free loans up to ₹10 lakh for rooftop solar.
Companies like Tata Capital, Bajaj Finance, and specialized solar fintechs offer easy EMI options. EMI typically works out to less than your current electricity bill, making it a net-positive investment from day one.
Under the RESCO (Renewable Energy Service Company) model, a company installs solar on your roof for free. You simply pay a per-unit rate lower than your grid electricity cost. Best for those who cannot afford upfront investment.
Some solar companies offer zero-down-payment installations where your monthly EMI is designed to be equal to or less than your current electricity bill savings, making solar effectively free from month one.
Going solar? Use this checklist to make sure your home is ready for solar panel installation:
Ensure your solar installer is empanelled with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) or your state nodal agency. This is mandatory for PM Surya Ghar Yojana subsidy eligibility.
Always compare quotes from multiple installers. Check system size (kW), panel brand, inverter brand, mounting structure quality, warranty terms, and total cost including GST.
Ask for photos and addresses of at least 5 previous installations. Visit one if possible. Reputable installers proudly share their portfolio and connect you with past customers.
Choose BIS-certified, Tier-1 solar panels from reputed brands like Waaree, Tata Solar, Adani, Vikram Solar, or Luminous. Avoid unknown Chinese brands that lack proper warranty support in India.
Solar panels: 25-year performance warranty. Inverter: 5-10 years. Mounting structure: 10-15 years. Installation workmanship: minimum 2-5 years. Get everything in writing before paying.
A good installer handles everything — PM Surya Ghar portal registration, DISCOM feasibility application, net meter installation, DISCOM inspection, and subsidy claim submission.
Standard terms: 30% token advance, 50% after panel and inverter delivery to site, 20% after commissioning and net meter activation. Never pay 100% upfront.
Ask about annual maintenance contracts (AMC), remote monitoring setup, response time for complaints, and who to contact for inverter or panel issues. Good after-sales service is as important as good installation.
Understanding solar energy terminology helps you make better decisions and communicate effectively with your solar installer.
A billing system where excess solar power you generate is exported to the grid, and you receive credits on your electricity bill. Your meter runs both ways — forward when consuming, backward when exporting.
A solar system connected to the electricity grid via net metering. Most affordable option and eligible for government subsidy. Does not work during power cuts unless paired with a battery.
A standalone solar system with battery storage that works independently of the grid. Higher cost due to batteries. Ideal for remote areas or locations with unreliable electricity.
Combines grid connection with battery backup. Works during power outages and supports net metering. Highest upfront cost but maximum flexibility and energy security.
Converts DC electricity from solar panels into AC electricity used by home appliances. Types: string inverters (most common), micro-inverters (panel-level), and hybrid inverters (with battery support).
The rated maximum power output of a solar system under standard test conditions. A 1kWp system generates approximately 4-5 units (kWh) of electricity per day in most Indian cities.
Distribution Company — your local electricity provider (e.g., MSEDCL, BSES, BESCOM, KSEB, TANGEDCO). DISCOM approval is required for net metering and grid-connected solar systems.
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy — the central government body that sets renewable energy policies, maintains the list of empanelled solar installers, and runs the PM Surya Ghar Yojana.
Bureau of Indian Standards certification mandatory for solar panels and inverters sold in India. Ensures product quality, safety, and performance standards. Always buy BIS-certified equipment.
Classification by Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF) for solar manufacturers with strong financials, vertical integration, and reliable warranty support. Indian Tier-1 brands: Waaree, Tata Solar, Adani, Vikram Solar.
The amount of sunlight energy received per square meter. India receives 4-7 kWh/m²/day — among the highest globally. Western and Southern India get the best solar irradiance.
Government rule requiring solar cells and modules to be manufactured in India to qualify for PM Surya Ghar Yojana subsidy. Ensures the subsidy supports Indian solar manufacturing.
The maximum power (in kW) your electricity connection is approved for by your DISCOM. Your rooftop solar system size is typically limited to your sanctioned load for net metering eligibility.
Also called a net meter or smart meter. Records both electricity consumed from the grid and excess solar power exported to the grid. Installed by your DISCOM after solar system commissioning.
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