Understand your solar cost, subsidy, and savings for your home in India
Learn how much rooftop solar may save you, whether your roof is suitable, and what system size may fit your home — then generate a personalized solar plan in under 2 minutes.
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Start Here — Understand Solar in 60 Seconds
If you’re new to rooftop solar, here’s the simplest way to understand it before diving deeper.
1. Sun → Electricity
Solar panels on your roof convert sunlight into electricity for your home.
2. Use & Export
You use solar power during the day. Extra electricity goes to the grid.
3. Save on Bills
Your electricity bill reduces significantly, often paying back in 3–6 years.
Want to see what this looks like for your home?
Powered by intelligent solar modeling — enhanced with satellite-based rooftop analysis where supported, and AI-powered explanations to help you understand your plan clearly.
Understand Solar Energy for Indian Homes
How rooftop solar works
From sunlight on your roof to electricity in your home
Sunlight
Panels capture sunlight during the day.
Solar Panels
Panels convert sunlight into DC electricity.
Inverter
The inverter converts DC into usable AC power.
Your Home
Your appliances use solar electricity first.
Grid
Extra power can be exported to the grid.
Sunlight
Panels capture sunlight during the day.
Solar Panels
Panels convert sunlight into DC electricity.
Inverter
The inverter converts DC into usable AC power.
Your Home
Your appliances use solar electricity first.
Grid
Extra power can be exported to the grid.
During the day, your home uses solar power first. If your system generates more than you need, the extra electricity may be exported to the grid through net metering, depending on your setup and local rules.
Rooftop solar is not just about reducing your electricity bill. It helps you generate power on your own roof, reduce dependence on rising grid prices, and make your home more energy-resilient over time.
In simple terms
Generate power
Sunlight is converted into usable electricity for your home.
Use solar first
Your appliances use solar power during the day before grid power.
Save over time
Lower bills and long system life make solar valuable over years.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
Photovoltaic (PV) cells in a solar panel absorb sunlight and convert it into direct-current (DC) electricity. Your home appliances, however, use alternating-current (AC).
A solar inverter converts that DC electricity into AC power that your home can actually use. During sunny hours, your home uses solar first. At night or during low generation, it draws power from the grid.
Preparing Your Home for Solar Installation
A proper site survey helps determine whether solar is practical for your roof and what kind of system may fit your home.
- Rooftop evaluation — usable area and sunlight access
- System recommendation — practical size range such as 2 kW, 3 kW, or 5 kW
- System type guidance — Grid-Tied, Hybrid, or Off-Grid
- Government incentives — central and state-level subsidy guidance
Choosing an MNRE-registered, DISCOM-aware installer usually makes the journey smoother from survey to activation.
What to Expect in Your Solar Proposal
- Recommended system size and estimated daily generation
- Monthly and lifetime savings projections
- Expected payback period, often around 3–6 years
- Net metering benefits if applicable
- Total project cost after subsidy assumptions
Many installers also provide inverter apps or monitoring tools so users can track output and savings more easily after installation.
Installation Process: Step-by-Step
- Solar panels are mounted on the rooftop
- Inverter and wiring are connected safely
- Net-metering paperwork and meter swap happen if applicable
- Final checks are completed before system activation
Typical Project Timelines
| Stage | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Site Survey & Proposal | 2–3 days |
| Subsidy Application (if eligible) | 1–2 weeks |
| Installation & Testing | 3–7 days |
| Grid Connection & Activation | 5–15 days |
| Total Project Completion | ≈ 3–4 weeks |
Life After Installation: Monitoring & Maintenance
- Your home begins using solar power during the day
- Extra energy may be exported through net metering
- Apps can help track generation, savings, and system health
Panels usually require only light cleaning and basic monitoring. For most homes, solar becomes a low-maintenance long-term system.
Why More Homeowners Are Going Solar Now
Electricity tariffs continue to rise while rooftop solar has become more practical due to better awareness, improving economics, and government support. For many homes, solar is now a serious long-term decision rather than just an eco upgrade.
Your roof can become a power-producing asset — not just unused space.
PM Surya Ghar & Solar Subsidy 2026 Guide
How rooftop solar subsidy works
From installation to subsidy credit
Homeowner
You decide to install rooftop solar for your home.
Registered Installer
An eligible installer helps with application and installation.
Installation
Panels, inverter, and system setup are completed on your roof.
Approval / Inspection
Required checks and documentation are completed.
Subsidy Credited
Approved subsidy is transferred to your bank account.
Homeowner
You decide to install rooftop solar for your home.
Registered Installer
An eligible installer helps with application and installation.
Installation
Panels, inverter, and system setup are completed on your roof.
Approval / Inspection
Required checks and documentation are completed.
Subsidy Credited
Approved subsidy is transferred to your bank account.
In most cases, the subsidy is not deducted upfront from your quote. The system is installed first, required approvals are completed, and then the approved subsidy amount is credited later.
For many Indian homeowners, subsidy is one of the biggest reasons rooftop solar feels more achievable. But the process can seem confusing at first. This section gives you a simpler view of how the subsidy works, who is usually eligible, and what to expect.
In simple terms
Install first
In most cases, subsidy is processed after installation and approval.
Use eligible vendors
Registered installers make the process more reliable and compliant.
Subsidy has limits
The amount depends on system size and central policy caps.
What Is the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana?
It is the Government of India’s flagship rooftop solar subsidy program for residential homes. After installation, documentation, and approval, the eligible subsidy amount is credited to the homeowner’s bank account.
Central Subsidy Structure
| System Size | Subsidy Amount |
|---|---|
| Up to 2 kW | ₹30,000 per kW |
| Next 1 kW (2–3 kW) | ₹18,000 per kW |
| Beyond 3 kW | No additional central subsidy |
Maximum central subsidy: ₹78,000 per household.
State-Level Incentives Can Differ
In addition to central subsidy, some states or DISCOMs may offer additional benefits. These can change over time, so they should be treated as location-specific rather than guaranteed nationally.
Delhi
Delhi has offered generation-based incentives under parts of its solar policy framework, in addition to central subsidy.
Gujarat
Gujarat has historically been one of the more solar-active states and may provide additional support through DISCOM-backed programs.
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu may run utility-specific or time-bound rooftop solar promotion schemes depending on the latest policy cycle.
State-level incentives should always be confirmed through the current installer process or local utility guidance.
Who Is Usually Eligible?
- Residential homeowners with usable rooftop space
- Homes with sufficient sunlight access
- Projects installed through eligible / registered vendors
- Grid-tied or hybrid systems, depending on current rules
Off-grid-only setups are generally not treated the same way under mainstream residential subsidy programs.
How the Application Usually Happens
Installer-Assisted (Recommended)
- Installer handles portal submission
- Documents and photo steps are guided properly
- Approvals are usually easier to manage
- Lower risk of process mistakes
Self-Application
- Register on the official rooftop / subsidy portal
- Select an eligible vendor
- Upload required documents
- Complete photo, inspection, and approval steps
Self-application is possible, but many homeowners prefer installer support because the process includes multiple approval steps.
Documents Commonly Required
- Aadhaar card or voter ID
- Latest electricity bill
- Rooftop ownership proof or NOC if needed
- Bank passbook or bank account details
- Installer registration / project details
How Subsidy Changes the Upfront Cost
| System Capacity | Approx. Cost | Subsidy | You May Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 kW | ₹1.2 – ₹1.4 lakh | ₹60,000 | ₹60k – ₹80k |
| 3 kW | ₹1.8 – ₹2.1 lakh | ₹78,000 | ₹1 – ₹1.3 lakh |
| 4 kW+ | ₹2.4 lakh+ | ₹78,000 | Cost minus ₹78k |
Why Subsidy Matters So Much
- It lowers the effective upfront cost
- It shortens the payback period for many homes
- It makes solar more accessible to first-time homeowners
Subsidy does not make every project “cheap,” but it can materially improve the economics of rooftop solar for eligible homes.
Types of Solar Panels & Rooftop Systems in India
Compare system types
The 3 main rooftop solar setups for Indian homes
Grid-Tied
Best for most city homes
- Connected to the electricity grid
- No battery required
- Eligible for net metering
- Usually the most cost-effective option
Hybrid
Solar + battery backup
- Connected to the grid with battery support
- Gives backup during outages
- Higher cost than on-grid systems
- Good for homes needing both savings and backup
Off-Grid
Independent from the grid
- Runs without a regular grid connection
- Battery storage is essential
- Useful in remote or low-grid areas
- Usually not the first choice for urban homes
For most Indian homeowners with a regular electricity connection, a grid-tied system is usually the starting point. Hybrid systems are more suitable when backup power is also important.
One of the biggest rooftop solar decisions is not just whether to go solar, but what kind of system setup and size actually fits your home. This depends on your electricity usage, backup needs, roof conditions, and long-term goals.
In simple terms
Choose the setup
Grid-tied, hybrid, and off-grid systems serve different needs.
Estimate the size
Your electricity bill helps indicate the practical kW range.
Match your goals
Some homes prioritize savings, while others also want backup power.
How system sizing works
Your electricity bill helps estimate the right solar setup
Monthly Bill
Your current electricity bill gives the first signal about usage.
System Size
Your bill and usage pattern help estimate the right kW range.
Solar Generation
The system can generate electricity daily based on size and sunlight.
Monthly Savings
Higher self-consumption usually means stronger bill reduction over time.
Monthly Bill
Your current electricity bill gives the first signal about usage.
System Size
Your bill and usage pattern help estimate the right kW range.
Solar Generation
The system can generate electricity daily based on size and sunlight.
Monthly Savings
Higher self-consumption usually means stronger bill reduction over time.
This is why two homes do not always need the same system size. Roof space, electricity usage, timing of consumption, and local conditions all influence what makes sense for your home.
Understanding Solar System Size — What Does “kW” Mean?
Solar systems are rated in kilowatts (kW), which represent the maximum power the system can generate under strong sunlight. In simple terms, kW is like the capacity size of your rooftop system.
In many Indian conditions, a 1 kW system may generate roughly 3.5 to 4 units of electricity per day, though this can vary by city, season, and roof conditions.
How Monthly Bill Often Connects to System Size
| Monthly Bill | Typical Size Range |
|---|---|
| ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 | 1.5 kW – 2 kW |
| ₹2,000 – ₹3,500 | 2.5 kW – 3.5 kW |
| ₹4,000 or more | 4 kW – 5 kW |
These are broad guidance ranges, not exact promises. Actual system sizing depends on usage pattern, sanctioned load, roof space, energy goals, and local practical limits.
The 3 Main Solar System Types
1. Grid-Tied (On-Grid)
This is the most common rooftop setup for homes with a normal electricity connection. It works with the grid and usually does not require batteries.
Best suited for homeowners who mainly want lower bills and net metering benefits.
2. Off-Grid
Off-grid systems operate independently and rely heavily on battery storage. They are more useful in places where regular grid access is weak or unavailable.
They are usually less common for urban homes and do not fit the same economic model as typical on-grid residential solar.
3. Hybrid
Hybrid systems combine a grid connection with battery backup. They are useful for homeowners who want both savings and some protection during outages.
They usually cost more than a standard grid-tied setup, but may make sense for homes where backup is a priority.
Quick Comparison — Grid-Tied vs Off-Grid vs Hybrid
| Feature | Grid-Tied | Off-Grid | Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grid Connection | Yes | No | Yes |
| Battery Backup | No | Yes | Yes |
| Net Metering Eligible | Yes | No | Yes |
| Subsidy Eligibility | Usually Yes | Usually No | Often Yes |
Common Solar Panel Types
1. Polycrystalline Panels
Usually more budget-friendly and suitable for homes with enough roof space. They are widely used and remain a practical option in many installations.
2. Monocrystalline Panels
Typically more efficient and visually cleaner, especially where roof space is limited. These are often chosen for premium or space-constrained residential projects.
3. Bifacial Panels
Designed to capture light from both sides under the right conditions. These are more situational and usually make more sense in specific installation environments.
Quick Comparison — Panel Types
| Panel Type | Efficiency | Appearance | Cost | Ideal Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polycrystalline | 15 – 17% | Blue | ₹ | Budget, larger roofs |
| Monocrystalline | 18 – 21% | Black | ₹₹ | Compact roofs, premium builds |
| Bifacial | 21 – 25% | Dual-sided | ₹₹₹ | Specialized open-terrace cases |
What Most Homeowners Actually Need
For many Indian urban homes, the most practical starting point is a grid-tied system sized according to real usage and available roof space. Hybrid systems become more relevant when backup power matters.
The right solar setup is not just about choosing a panel. It is about matching system type, size, roof reality, and household goals.
How to Sell Extra Solar Power to the Grid
How net metering works
Use solar first, then export extra power to the grid
Daytime
Solar generation is active
Your home uses solar electricity first. If your system generates more than your home needs, the extra power can be sent to the grid and counted as export credits.
Night / Low Solar
Grid electricity supports your home
At night or during low generation, your home draws electricity from the grid. Export credits from sunny periods may help reduce your final bill, depending on local policy.
Net metering does not mean your home runs without the grid all the time. It means your solar generation and grid usage are balanced over time, so your bill can reduce significantly.
Net metering is one of the biggest reasons rooftop solar becomes financially attractive. It allows your home to use solar power first, and in many cases, send extra electricity back to the grid instead of wasting it.
In simple terms
Use solar first
During the day, your home can use the solar electricity it generates.
Export extra power
If generation is higher than usage, extra units may go to the grid.
Reduce your bill
Grid credits can help lower the amount you ultimately pay.
What Net Metering Actually Means
Net metering is a billing arrangement where both imported grid electricity and exported solar electricity are recorded. In simple terms, it helps balance what your home consumes and what your solar system contributes back.
- Your home uses solar electricity first during generation hours
- Extra solar units may be sent to the grid
- When solar is low, your home still uses grid electricity
What Usually Happens Through the Day
| Time of Day | Typical Energy Flow |
|---|---|
| Sunny daytime | Solar powers the home first, and surplus may go to the grid |
| Night / low generation | Home draws electricity from the grid |
| Billing cycle | Final bill reflects the net effect of import and export |
Simple Example
Suppose your system generates 300 units in a month and your home uses 250 units. The extra 50 units may be exported to the grid and treated as credits, depending on how your local policy and billing cycle apply.
In months where your home needs more than your system generates, those credits can help reduce what you pay.
When Is Net Metering Usually Applicable?
- Grid-tied or hybrid rooftop solar systems
- Installations completed through eligible technical processes
- Systems that meet the utility / DISCOM size and policy rules
- Not usually relevant for pure off-grid systems
Exact rules can differ across states and utilities, so the installer process and local approval path matter.
Practical Billing Illustration
| Month | Units Generated | Units Consumed | Net Export / Import | Credit Balance | Approx. Bill |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 320 | 250 | +70 units | 70 forward | ₹0 |
| Feb | 280 | 300 | −20 units | 50 forward | ₹0 |
| Mar | 260 | 280 | −20 units | 30 forward | ₹0 |
| Apr | 300 | 220 | +80 units | 110 forward | ₹0 |
| May | 220 | 260 | −40 units | 70 forward | ₹0 |
Credit treatment, adjustment cycles, and settlement details vary by utility policy.
How Net Metering Is Usually Set Up
- Installer applies for the required DISCOM / utility approval
- A bi-directional meter setup is arranged if applicable
- The solar system is tested and synchronized properly
- Net metering becomes active after required approvals
Documents Commonly Needed
- Aadhaar card or voter ID
- Recent electricity bill
- Property proof or rooftop consent if needed
- Installer technical documentation and related forms
Why Net Metering Matters
- It helps make better use of surplus daytime generation
- It improves the financial value of rooftop solar
- It can shorten payback for many residential systems
- It makes solar more practical for homes with daytime export potential
Net metering is one of the biggest reasons rooftop solar can make financial sense for grid-connected homes.
Post-Install Solar Maintenance & Monitoring Guide
What maintenance actually looks like
Solar maintenance is usually simple, predictable, and low effort
Simple Cleaning
Panels usually need light cleaning every few months.
Monitor Output
Most systems let you track performance through an app or inverter display.
Occasional Support
If output drops or alerts appear, your installer can inspect and resolve issues.
Long Protection
Panels and inverters usually come with warranties for long-term peace of mind.
Simple Cleaning
Panels usually need light cleaning every few months.
Monitor Output
Most systems let you track performance through an app or inverter display.
Occasional Support
If output drops or alerts appear, your installer can inspect and resolve issues.
Long Protection
Panels and inverters usually come with warranties for long-term peace of mind.
Rooftop solar is not maintenance-free, but it is usually far less demanding than many people expect. In most homes, light cleaning and basic performance tracking cover most of the effort.
One common concern about rooftop solar is whether it will become difficult to maintain. In reality, most residential systems need only light upkeep, occasional checks, and basic monitoring to keep performing well over the long term.
In simple terms
Clean occasionally
Panels usually need light cleaning every few months.
Track performance
Apps or inverter displays help you monitor output over time.
Call support if needed
Installers can usually help if output drops or alerts appear.
Monitoring Your Solar System Is Usually Easy
Most modern rooftop systems include inverter displays, mobile apps, or monitoring dashboards that make it easier to track generation, savings, and performance patterns.
- Check real-time or daily energy production
- Review monthly and long-term savings trends
- Spot performance drops or unusual behavior earlier
- Keep a simple view of how the system is performing
Basic Maintenance Is Usually Low Effort
Solar panels have no moving parts, which is one reason they are considered relatively low-maintenance. In many homes, basic cleaning every few months is enough to keep output healthy.
Good cleaning habits
- Use clean water and a soft cloth or sponge
- Avoid harsh chemicals or very aggressive pressure cleaning
- Clean during cooler hours when panels are not hot
- Pay more attention if your area has heavy dust buildup
Optional Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMCs)
Some installers offer AMCs for homeowners who want convenience and periodic support. These are optional, but can be helpful if you want someone else to handle routine follow-up.
- Periodic cleaning visits
- System health checks
- Basic performance reviews
- Faster support when issues arise
AMC pricing and coverage differ by installer, so it is worth asking what is actually included before assuming long-term service is covered.
Understanding Warranties
| Component | Typical Warranty | What it usually covers |
|---|---|---|
| Solar panels | Around 25 years | Performance output over time |
| Inverter | Often 5–10 years | Functional / technical issues |
| Workmanship | Often 1–2 years | Installation-related faults |
Exact terms vary by brand and installer, so warranty documents should always be reviewed carefully before finalizing the project.
What If Something Goes Wrong?
Most issues are not dramatic. Common causes of lower output can include dust, shading changes, loose wiring, or inverter alerts. A monitoring app or installer check usually helps identify the issue.
- Check if the app or inverter shows a warning
- Compare recent output with your normal pattern
- Contact the installer if performance seems off
- Arrange inspection only if needed
Why This Still Remains a Low-Maintenance Home Upgrade
- No fuel handling or daily manual operation
- No complicated routine maintenance for most homes
- Long system life relative to the effort required
- Monitoring is easier today than it used to be
Rooftop solar is not zero-maintenance, but for most households it is a manageable, long-term system rather than a burdensome one.
Why This Platform Works Differently
How Switch to Solar works
From your inputs to a structured solar decision
Your Inputs
Electricity bill, roof type, location, and usage pattern.
Structured Solar Project
Your inputs are converted into a standardized project profile.
Solar Plan
System size, savings estimate, and feasibility context.
Aligned Installers
Compare installers who match your project and requirements.
Your Inputs
Electricity bill, roof type, location, and usage pattern.
Structured Solar Project
Your inputs are converted into a standardized project profile.
Solar Plan
System size, savings estimate, and feasibility context.
Aligned Installers
Compare installers who match your project and requirements.
Most solar decisions today are still made through fragmented conversations, inconsistent quotes, and limited clarity. That makes it hard to compare options or understand what actually fits your home.
What is different here
Structured inputs
Your data is captured in a consistent way before quotes.
Standardized output
Solar plans and quotes follow a clearer structure.
Better comparison
You compare aligned options, not random responses.
Traditional Way vs Structured Approach
Traditional Approach
- Talk to multiple installers separately
- Each explains things differently
- Hard to compare quotes clearly
- Decision depends on conversations, not structure
Switch to Solar Approach
- Start with your structured project inputs
- Get a clear solar plan first
- Compare aligned installer responses
- Make decisions with better context
Where to Go Next
If you want to see what solar might look like for your home, the best starting point is generating a simple plan. If you already understand the basics, you can directly compare installers.
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