Solar Panels, Subsidy & Net-Metering Guide — India 2026
Switch to Solar helps you understand rooftop solar, tap government subsidies, compare verified installers and get hassle-free quotes — all in one place.
Understand Solar Energy for Indian Homes
Solar energy is more than just saving money—it’s about gaining energy independence, shielding yourself from rising electricity prices, and supporting a cleaner future. Rooftop solar systems are now simpler and more efficient than ever.
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, require alternating-current (AC).
A solar inverter bridges this gap by converting DC from the panels into usable AC. During sunny hours your home prioritises solar power; at night or on cloudy days it automatically draws from the grid.
Preparing Your Home for Solar Installation
A professional site survey typically covers:
- Rooftop Evaluation —usable area and sunlight availability
- System Recommendation —ideal size (2 kW, 3 kW, 5 kW, etc.)
- System Type Guidance —Grid-Tied, Hybrid, or Off-Grid
- Government Incentives —central & state subsidies explained
Choosing an MNRE-registered, DISCOM-approved installer ensures a smooth journey from survey to activation.
What to Expect in Your Solar Proposal
- Recommended system size and daily energy generation
- Monthly and lifetime savings projections
- Expected payback period (typically 3–6 years)
- Net-metering benefits (if applicable)
- Total cost after subsidies
Many installers now provide mobile apps for real-time system monitoring.
Installation Process: Step-by-Step
- Solar panel mounting on your rooftop
- Inverter & wiring integration
- Net-metering application and meter swap (if applicable)
- Final inspection and 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: Maintenance & Monitoring
- Home runs primarily on solar power
- Excess energy exported to the grid earns credits via net metering
- Track performance, savings, and carbon offset in mobile apps
Panels require only occasional cleaning; expect 25 + years of reliable output with minimal upkeep.
Why Go Solar Today?
Electricity tariffs keep climbing while solar costs fall—thanks to subsidies, mass adoption, and easy financing. Rooftop solar is now a practical path to long-term savings and increased property value.
Your rooftop is ready. The future is bright.
PM Surya Ghar & Solar Subsidy 2026 Guide
Thinking of switching to rooftop solar? India’s flagship subsidy scheme— the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana—makes it more affordable than ever. Here’s a concise guide to everything you need to know.
What Is the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana?
It’s the Government of India’s rooftop-solar subsidy programme for residential properties. After installation and verification, the approved subsidy is credited straight to your bank account.
Subsidy Details
| 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 subsidy |
Maximum subsidy: ₹78,000 per household (regardless of system size above 3 kW).
State-Level Solar Subsidies (2026)
Delhi
₹2 per kWh generation-based incentive offered under Delhi’s solar net metering policy. Applies on top of central subsidy.
Gujarat
Eligible homeowners receive an additional ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 from state DISCOMs, depending on system size and project phase.
Tamil Nadu
TANGEDCO runs seasonal solar promotion schemes offering limited-time subsidies or generation-based incentives. Check current availability with your installer.
Availability varies by state and utility provider. Always confirm eligibility and current incentives with your DISCOM or installer.
Who Is Eligible?
- Residential homeowner (or NOC if renting)
- Sufficient rooftop space & sunlight
- Installed by an MNRE-registered vendor
- Grid-Tied or Hybrid systems only (Off-grid excluded)
How to Apply for the Subsidy
1. Installer-Assisted (Recommended)
- Installer submits application on the National Rooftop Portal
- Handles documents, photos, and approvals end-to-end
- Subsidy credited post-verification
2. Self-Application
Apply yourself at pmsuryaghar.gov.in
- Register with mobile & consumer details
- Select an MNRE-registered vendor
- Upload Aadhaar, bill, property proof & bank passbook
- Submit pre- & post-installation photos
- Await inspection and approval
Self-application needs diligent follow-ups.
Documents Checklist
- Aadhaar Card / Voter ID
- Latest electricity bill
- Rooftop ownership proof / NOC
- Bank passbook copy
- Installer’s MNRE registration number
Actual Savings with Subsidy
| System Capacity | Approx. Cost | Subsidy | You 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 Install Solar Now?
- Lower upfront cost: Subsidy slashes investment
- Fast payback: Typically under 5 years
- Long-term savings: 20 – 25 years of reduced bills
Subsidy terms can change—locking in today’s incentives ensures maximum financial and environmental returns.
Types of Solar Panels & Rooftop Systems in India
Switching to solar is one of the smartest upgrades you can make—but picking the right system size and panel technology is key to maximising savings, comfort, and energy independence. Use this guide to make a confident choice.
Understanding Solar System Size — What Is a kW?
Solar systems are rated in kilowatts (kW), indicating the maximum power they can generate under peak sunlight. Think of kW as the “engine size” of your solar setup—the higher the kW, the more energy you produce.
In Indian conditions, a 1 kW rooftop system typically generates about 3.5 – 4 units (kWh) of electricity per day.
Match System Size to Your Monthly Electricity Bill
| Monthly Bill | Recommended Size |
|---|---|
| ₹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 |
Most 2 BHK – 3 BHK homes benefit from a 2 – 3 kW system. Your installer will fine-tune sizing based on roof space, sunlight, and future needs.
Types of Solar Systems
1. Grid-Tied (On-Grid)
Connected to your DISCOM grid; powers your home during the day and sends surplus energy back via net metering to earn credits.
Best for urban homes with reliable electricity supply.
2. Off-Grid Systems
Fully independent; stores energy in batteries for night-time or outages.
Ideal for remote areas with poor grid access (no subsidy).
3. Hybrid Systems
Combines grid connection with battery backup—daytime savings plus night-time security.
Perfect for homes needing both backup power and long-term bill reduction.
Quick Comparison — System Types
| Feature | Grid-Tied | Off-Grid | Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grid Connection | Yes | No | Yes |
| Battery Backup | No | Yes | Yes |
| Net Metering Eligible | Yes | No | Yes |
| Subsidy Eligible | Yes | No | Yes |
Types of Solar Panels
1. Polycrystalline Panels (Poly)
Multiple silicon crystals • 15 – 17 % efficiency • Blue appearance • Cost-effective & reliable
Ideal for larger roofs or budget installations.
2. Monocrystalline Panels (Mono)
Single silicon crystal • 18 – 21 % efficiency • Sleek black finish • Performs well in low light
Best for compact roofs or premium systems.
3. Bifacial Panels
Capture sunlight on both sides • 21 – 25 % efficiency • Requires open, reflective surfaces
Suited for open terraces needing maximum output.
Quick Comparison — Panel Types
| Panel Type | Efficiency | Appearance | Cost | Ideal Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polycrystalline | 15 – 17 % | Blue | ₹ | Budget, large roofs |
| Monocrystalline | 18 – 21 % | Black | ₹₹ | Compact roofs, premium |
| Bifacial | 21 – 25 % | Dual-sided | ₹₹₹ | Open terraces, max output |
Making Your Decision
For most Indian homeowners, Polycrystalline or Monocrystalline panels strike the best balance of affordability, durability, and performance. Bifacial panels shine in premium projects with open, reflective rooftops.
An MNRE-registered installer will match system type, size, and panel technology to your budget and long-term energy goals.
How to Sell Extra Solar Power to the Grid
Imagine your electricity meter spinning backward—crediting you whenever your solar system produces more power than you use. That’s precisely what net metering does, turning your home into a true energy-saving powerhouse.
What Is Net Metering?
Net metering is a billing arrangement that records both the grid electricity you consume and the surplus solar electricity you export. You pay only for the net units (consumed minus exported).
- During sunny hours your solar powers the home first.
- Excess energy flows to the grid, earning bill credits.
- At night or on cloudy days your home seamlessly draws power from the grid.
How Net Metering Works Through the Day
| Time of Day | Energy Flow |
|---|---|
| Sunny daytime | Home uses solar; surplus exported to grid |
| Night / cloudy | Home draws power from grid |
| Billing cycle | Pay only for net units (consumption – generation) |
Example — Monthly Bill with Net Metering
Suppose in one month your system generates 300 units and your home uses 250 units. The 50-unit surplus is exported to the grid and carried forward as bill credits.
If a future month’s consumption exceeds generation, those credits reduce what you pay.
Eligibility Criteria
- Grid-tied or hybrid solar system
- Installed by an MNRE-registered vendor
- System capacity within your state’s limit (typically up to 10 kW)
- Off-grid systems are not eligible
Net Metering Billing Cycle — Practical 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 |
Credits usually carry forward for up to 12 months (DISCOM policy).
Steps to Set Up Net Metering
- Installer applies for DISCOM approval
- Bi-directional net meter is installed
- System tested and synchronised with grid
- Final activation (7 – 21 working days)
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card / Voter ID
- Recent electricity bill
- Property ownership proof or NOC
- Installer’s technical details & forms
Most installers manage the paperwork end-to-end.
Advantages of Net Metering
- Monetises every surplus unit you generate
- Reduces or eliminates electricity bills during high-production months
- Shortens your solar payback period
- Ensures seamless grid supply when solar production is low
Turn every sunny day into savings—make your rooftop your personal power plant.
Post-Install Solar Maintenance & Monitoring Guide
Your rooftop solar system is installed, activated, and saving you money. Keeping it in peak condition is simple—just a bit of monitoring and light cleaning delivers decades of reliable service.
Easily Monitor Your Solar System
Most modern inverters or installers provide mobile apps or online dashboards that let you:
- Track real-time energy production
- Review daily, monthly, and lifetime savings
- Monitor grid exports & imports (if net metering)
- Receive alerts if performance drops or maintenance is required
Popular platforms include Tigo, SolarEdge, Enphase, and installer-specific apps—giving you peace of mind from your phone.
Basic Maintenance — Simple & Effective
Solar panels are built for tough weather, have no moving parts, and need very little upkeep. Typically, a gentle cleaning every 3 – 4 months is enough.
Easy Cleaning Tips
- Use clean water with a soft sponge or cloth.
- Avoid high-pressure jets and harsh chemicals.
- Clean during cool hours (early morning / evening) to prevent thermal shock.
Clean panels absorb maximum sunlight, keeping your output high.
Optional Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMCs)
Many installers offer AMCs—typically ₹1 000 – ₹3 000 per year— covering:
- Regular panel cleaning
- Comprehensive system health checks
- Performance-analysis reports
- Priority technical support
AMCs are optional but add convenience and peace of mind.
Understanding Your Solar Warranties
| Component | Warranty Period | Coverage Details |
|---|---|---|
| Solar panels | 25 yrs (performance) | ≥ 80 % output for 25 years |
| Inverter | 5 – 10 yrs | Electrical & functional issues |
| Workmanship | 1 – 2 yrs | Wiring, mounting, fitting faults |
Review warranty documents carefully and ask about extended-warranty options before installation.
Dealing with System Issues
Most issues are minor—often dust build-up, temporary shading, or small wiring wear. Your monitoring app will flag any drop in performance.
- Check the app for specific alerts.
- Contact your installer’s support for remote diagnostics.
- If needed, a technician will visit for inspection and quick repairs.
Long-Term Benefits of Proper Maintenance
- Consistent, significant financial savings
- Enhanced property value
- Lower environmental footprint
- Protection from rising grid tariffs
With minimal effort, your solar system works quietly for decades—delivering maximum benefits year after year.