📋 In This Article
Rooftop solar has crossed the tipping point in India — it is now cheaper over a 25-year lifespan than grid electricity in most states, subsidised by up to 40% by government, and accessible to any homeowner with a suitable roof. Here's everything you need to make the decision.
Cost and Payback Period
A 3 kW rooftop solar system — sufficient for most middle-class Indian homes — costs ₹1,80,000–2,50,000 before subsidy. The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana provides subsidies of ₹30,000 for 1 kW, ₹60,000 for 2 kW, and ₹78,000 for 3 kW systems. After subsidy, most 3 kW systems cost ₹1,00,000–1,50,000 and pay back within 3–5 years through electricity savings.
How to Apply for Subsidy
Register on the PM Surya Ghar portal (pmsuryaghar.gov.in). Get empaneled vendors to provide quotes. Choose a vendor, apply for subsidy approval, install the system, and receive subsidy disbursement directly to your bank account within 30 days of installation. The process is now fully online.
Net Metering: Getting Paid for Excess Power
Net metering allows you to export excess solar power to the grid and receive credit on your electricity bill. This makes solar viable even without battery storage — you export during the day and import at night, effectively using the grid as a battery. Most state electricity boards now have net metering provisions.
Selecting an Installer
Choose only empaneled vendors listed on the PM Surya Ghar portal — they are eligible for subsidies and have met quality standards. Compare at least 3 quotes. Ask about panel brand and efficiency, inverter warranty (critical component), installation warranty, and after-sales service. Tier 1 solar panel brands (Adani, Waaree, Vikram) offer 25-year performance guarantees.
Conclusion
Rooftop solar in India is now one of the best financial investments available — a 5-year payback, 25-year system life, and protection against rising electricity tariffs. With government subsidy, the barrier to entry has never been lower.