Solar Panel Subsidy – As India continues to advance toward a cleaner and more sustainable future, the government has introduced a powerful initiative that promises to transform the energy consumption of millions of households. The recently launched ₹18,000 Solar Panel Subsidy Scheme, starting from August 6, is a significant push to encourage residential solar power adoption. This move not only supports the national goal of reducing carbon emissions but also makes solar energy more affordable for the average Indian family.
The scheme offers a generous subsidy of ₹18,000 per household for installing rooftop solar panels. What makes this initiative more attractive is that it also includes free installation, reducing the financial burden on applicants and encouraging large-scale participation. With rising electricity bills and increasing awareness about sustainable living, the scheme is expected to see a massive response from urban and rural households alike.
Designed under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, the scheme aims to empower people by giving them access to clean energy while helping them save significantly on power expenses. The scheme has been rolled out in collaboration with DISCOMs (distribution companies), local authorities, and approved solar vendors. From farmers and middle-class families to small business owners, this scheme is a golden opportunity to switch to solar at minimal cost.
In the sections below, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—eligibility criteria, the application process, documents required, benefits, installation timeline, and contact details. You’ll also find detailed tables and FAQs to make the process even easier.
What Is the ₹18,000 Solar Panel Subsidy Scheme?
Launched under the central government’s PM Surya Ghar Yojana, this scheme offers a one-time subsidy for rooftop solar panels.
- Scheme start date: August 6
- Available for residential consumers only
- Offers subsidy of ₹18,000 per kW capacity
- Free installation through approved vendors
- Applicable across all states and union territories
- Aimed at reducing monthly electricity bills
- Helps promote clean, renewable energy in India
Key Benefits of the Subsidy Scheme
Here are the core benefits you’ll receive under the scheme:
- ₹18,000 subsidy per kW capacity
- Lower electricity bills (savings up to ₹1,000–₹1,500 per month)
- Free professional installation service
- Lifetime cost savings on power consumption
- Boosts your home’s resale value
- Reduces dependency on conventional power
- Supports India’s mission of net-zero emissions
Eligibility Criteria for the Solar Panel Subsidy
To ensure the subsidy reaches the right beneficiaries, the government has outlined clear eligibility norms.
- The applicant must be an Indian citizen
- Must own the residential property (or have ownership proof)
- The household must have an active electricity connection
- Only residential households are eligible (no commercial properties)
- Solar panels must be purchased and installed via empanelled vendors
Required Documents for Application
Before applying, make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Aadhar card of the applicant
- Recent electricity bill
- Proof of ownership (registry, property tax receipt)
- Bank passbook or account details for subsidy transfer
- Mobile number linked to Aadhar
- PAN card (for income verification, if required)
How to Apply for ₹18,000 Solar Panel Subsidy
The government has made the application process completely digital to ensure ease and transparency.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official PM Surya Ghar Yojana portal
- Register using your mobile number and electricity consumer number
- Choose your DISCOM and log in to your account
- Fill in personal, property, and electricity details
- Upload required documents
- Choose your empanelled vendor from the approved list
- Submit application and wait for verification
- Upon approval, installation is scheduled within 20-30 days
Installation Process and Timeline
After approval, the installation process is swift and managed by trained professionals.
What to Expect During Installation
- Site survey by technician within 5–7 working days
- Material delivery and setup begins post-survey
- Installation completed within 20–30 working days
- Post-installation inspection by DISCOM
- Net metering connection within 10 days of inspection
- Subsidy amount transferred to the applicant’s account within 30 days
Sample Installation Timeline
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Application Approval | 5–10 days |
| Site Survey | 5–7 days |
| Vendor Coordination | 3–5 days |
| Installation Completion | 10–15 days |
| DISCOM Inspection | 5–7 days |
| Net Metering Setup | 7–10 days |
| Subsidy Disbursement | Within 30 days |
Costs, Savings, and Capacity Options
The cost of solar panels varies based on the size and type, but with this subsidy, the final cost drops significantly.
Estimated Cost vs Subsidy Table
| Capacity (kW) | Approx. Cost (₹) | Subsidy (₹) | Final Cost After Subsidy (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 kW | 60,000 | 18,000 | 42,000 |
| 2 kW | 1,20,000 | 36,000 | 84,000 |
| 3 kW | 1,80,000 | 54,000 | 1,26,000 |
| 4 kW | 2,40,000 | 72,000 | 1,68,000 |
| 5 kW | 3,00,000 | 90,000 | 2,10,000 |
| 6 kW | 3,60,000 | 1,08,000 | 2,52,000 |
| 7 kW | 4,20,000 | 1,26,000 | 2,94,000 |
| 8 kW | 4,80,000 | 1,44,000 | 3,36,000 |
Approved Solar Vendors and DISCOM Contact Info
The government has empanelled authorized vendors to ensure quality and safety.
How to Find Empanelled Vendors
- Visit the PM Surya Ghar official website
- Click on “Approved Vendors” tab
- Choose your state and select from the list
Sample List of Contact Details for DISCOMs
| State | DISCOM Name | Helpline Number | Email ID |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | BSES Rajdhani | 19123 | [email protected] |
| Maharashtra | MSEDCL | 1800-102-3435 | [email protected] |
| Uttar Pradesh | UPPCL | 1912 | [email protected] |
| Gujarat | PGVCL | 1800-233-155333 | [email protected] |
| Rajasthan | JVVNL | 1800-180-6507 | [email protected] |
| Karnataka | BESCOM | 1912 | [email protected] |
| Tamil Nadu | TANGEDCO | 1912 | [email protected] |
| Punjab | PSPCL | 1912 | [email protected] |
Additional Tips Before You Apply
Before jumping into the scheme, consider these key points:
- Check roof strength and available area
- Get quotes from multiple empanelled vendors
- Understand total capacity needed based on monthly consumption
- Confirm if your area supports net metering
- Maintain all installation and inspection documents safely
Things to Watch Out For
- Only install via approved vendors to get the subsidy
- Never pay the full amount upfront—opt for milestone payments
- Avoid unregistered contractors promising quicker service
- Contact your DISCOM in case of delay or dispute
Benefits at a Glance
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Government Subsidy | ₹18,000 per kW |
| Free Installation | Yes |
| Reduced Electricity Bill | Up to ₹18,000 savings annually |
| Net Metering | Yes |
| Increased Property Value | Yes |
| Clean Energy Use | Yes |
FAQs
1. Who is eligible for this solar subsidy scheme?
Indian citizens owning a residential property with a power connection are eligible.
2. What is the last date to apply?
The scheme starts on August 6. There’s no official last date yet, but early application is advised.
3. Can I choose my own vendor?
Yes, but the vendor must be from the government-approved list to avail the subsidy.
4. Is the installation free of charge?
Yes, installation is provided free under this scheme.
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5. How long will it take for the subsidy to be credited?
The subsidy is generally disbursed within 30 days post-installation.
