As the demand for electricity surges and power-producing companies struggle to keep pace, the power sector is increasingly leaning towards renewable energy sources (RES) and distributed generation (DG). Solar energy has emerged as an affordable and sustainable alternative to conventional electricity, and the Indian government is promoting its use through the Solar Rooftop Subsidy Scheme. This initiative provides subsidies to consumers for installing solar rooftop systems, fostering a greener and more sustainable future.
Solar Rooftop Systems: A Bright Solution for Energy Needs
Understanding Solar Energy
Solar energy is harnessed from the sun and proves to be a cost-effective alternative to electrical energy. It can be utilized for both household and commercial purposes, offering an eco-friendly solution to meet energy demands.
Solar Rooftop Systems: How They Work
A solar rooftop system consists of solar panels installed on rooftops to produce electricity. These panels capture sunlight and convert it into energy, which can be used for various purposes. The system’s compact design allows for efficient energy production in limited spaces.
Solar Rooftop Subsidy Scheme: A Ray of Hope
The Solar Rooftop Subsidy Scheme is an initiative by the Government of India to promote the use of solar rooftop systems across the country. Through this yojana, the government encourages the adoption of renewable energy by providing subsidies on solar rooftop installations for consumers. The aim is to reduce the country’s dependence on conventional power sources and promote a greener, more sustainable future.
Applying for Solar Rooftop Subsidy Scheme Online
Applicants can apply online for the grid-connected Solar Rooftop Subsidy Scheme through the official website of the central government. The application process is as follows:
- Visit the official website: solarrooftop.gov.in
- Click on the ‘apply for solar rooftop – click here’ link on the homepage.
- A new page with DISCOM Portal Links will appear, enabling applicants to apply for the Rooftop Solar Scheme.
- Check the list of DISCOM Portal links available state-wise.
- Click on the respective links according to your state to open the state electricity department or power corporation website.
- Complete the solar rooftop online application/registration form available on the site.
Receiving Solar Rooftop Scheme Subsidy
After registering their applications, beneficiaries will receive the subsidy in their bank accounts following the installation and inspection of the solar rooftop plant. The process can be tracked online at the national portal.
Solar Rooftop Scheme Subsidy Amounts
The central government offers a 30% subsidy for rooftop solar plant installations in general category states. For special category states, such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Jammu & Kashmir, and Lakshadweep, the central government provides subsidies of up to 70%. These subsidies aim to make solar installations more accessible and affordable for consumers across the country.
Solar Rooftop Calculator: Estimating Your Solar Potential
The solar rooftop calculator is an online tool that helps estimate the cost and size of a solar rooftop installation based on available space, desired capacity, or budget. This calculator is an invaluable resource for those considering a solar rooftop system.
How to Use the Solar Rooftop Calculator
- Visit the official site: solarrooftop.gov.in
- Click on the ‘solar rooftop calculator’ link on the homepage.
- The solar rooftop calculator page will open.
- Select either the total rooftop area, the solar panel capacity you want to install, or your budget.
- Select your state and consumer category.
- Enter your average electricity cost and click the ‘calculate’ button to receive an estimate of the cost of solar rooftop installation.
Solar Rooftop System Capacity Requirements
To avail the subsidy, the average installation cost of a rooftop photovoltaic (PV) system without subsidy should be approximately Rs 60,000 to Rs 70,000. To qualify for generation-based incentives, consumers should generate 1100 kWh – 1500 kWh per year.
Recent News and Updates
The Rooftop Solar Programme has been extended until 31.03.2026, ensuring that subsidies under the program are available until the target is achieved. Residential consumers are advised not to pay any additional charges to vendors for application fees on the National Portal or for net-metering/testing that are not prescribed by their respective distribution companies. If such charges are demanded, consumers should report them to their distribution company and the Ministry at rts-mnre[at]gov[dot]in.
The National Portal enables consumers from any part of the country to apply for rooftop solar installation and track the entire process, from registration to subsidy release directly into their bank accounts. The subsidy under the National Portal has been fixed at Rs. 14,588/- per kW (for capacities up to 3 kW) for the entire country.
Residential consumers must install rooftop solar plants from one of the vendors registered by their respective distribution companies. A list of registered vendors is available on the National Portal. A standard format of the agreement to be signed between the vendor and consumer is provided on the National Portal, with terms that can be mutually agreed upon. Vendors are required to provide maintenance services for at least 5 years, and in case of any default, the respective distribution company can encash the performance bank guarantee of the vendor.
There is no application fee for the National Portal, and charges for net metering have been prescribed by the respective distribution companies. Consumers do not need to pay any additional charges to vendors or distribution companies for receiving the subsidy, which will be credited directly into the beneficiary’s bank account by the Ministry.
The Ministry’s Rooftop Solar Programme Phase II provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) or subsidies to residential consumers for installing rooftop solar systems. The National Portal, launched by the Hon’ble Prime Minister on 30.07.2022, was developed to streamline the implementation of the Programme and make it more accessible to consumers across the country.
In Conclusion: Empowering the Nation with Solar Energy
The Indian government’s Solar Rooftop Subsidy Scheme is a significant step towards addressing the increasing demand for electricity and promoting the adoption of renewable energy. By providing financial assistance and facilitating the installation process, the government is making solar energy more accessible and affordable for the masses.
As more households and commercial entities switch to solar rooftop systems, India will be better equipped to meet its power demands, reduce its reliance on conventional energy sources, and create a more sustainable future. This initiative not only benefits individual consumers but also contributes to the nation’s overall progress in embracing renewable energy and fostering a greener, cleaner environment for all.