The Only Solar Guide
You Need.
From PM Surya Ghar subsidies to choosing the right inverter — the complete roadmap for Indian homeowners.No fluff. Just what you need to go solar.
Export excess power by day → Import from grid at night. Your meter runs backwards.
The Economics — Does Solar Actually Make Sense?
Look, solar isn't magic. But if your bill is over ₹3,000, it's basically free money after 3 years.
Let's be brutally honest. Solar is a financial product first, and a green product second. The question isn't "is solar good?" — it's "does solar make sense for MY bill, MY roof, and MY state?"
Electricity Tariff vs. Solar Cost (10-Year Projection)
* Assumes 5% annual tariff increase. Solar EMI ends after 5 years — then it's free.
PM Surya Ghar Subsidy Breakdown
Net Metering 101 — The Grid is Your Battery
You generate more than you use → Export to grid
You use grid power → Import from grid
At the end of the month, you only pay for the net difference. Most 3kW+ systems result in a ₹0 bill.
Run Your Own Numbers
Type your monthly bill → Get your exact subsidy, system size, and payback period.
Open Free Calculator →The Hardware — What to Buy (and What to Avoid)
Don't let your installer upsell you on cheap components. Here's what actually matters.
A solar system has 3 main components: the Inverter (the brain), the Panels (the muscle), and the Battery (the backup). Here's our unbiased breakdown.
Sub-Section A: Inverters (The Brain)
The inverter converts DC power from your panels to AC power for your home. A bad inverter = wasted panels.
The Luminous Zelio 1100 is India's most popular pure sine wave inverter. Silent, reliable, and works with all sensitive appliances.
| Model | Efficiency | Warranty | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Luminous Zelio 1100 | 94% | 24 mo | ₹6,500 | 2BHK |
| Microtek Solar 1135 | 93% | 24 mo | ₹5,200 | Budget |
| Enphase IQ7 (Micro) | 97% | 25 yr | ₹12k/panel | Shaded roofs |
Sub-Section B: Panels (The Muscle)
Higher efficiency. Better in low light. Ideal for small roofs.
Sub-Section C: Batteries (The Backup)
If you have frequent power cuts (>2 hrs/day), you need a battery. Use Solar C10 batteries — not regular tubular batteries.
The Installation — What Happens After You Sign
Most installers take 5–7 days. Here's what to expect, and how to not get scammed.
Site Survey
Installer visits to check roof angle, shadow, and load. Should be FREE. If they charge for it, walk away.
Site Survey
Installer visits to check roof angle, shadow, and load. Should be FREE. If they charge for it, walk away.
Quotation & Agreement
You receive a detailed quote. Verify panel brand, inverter model, warranty terms, and subsidy handling before signing.
Quotation & Agreement
You receive a detailed quote. Verify panel brand, inverter model, warranty terms, and subsidy handling before signing.
Material Delivery
Panels, mounting structure, cables, and inverter arrive. Cross-check every item against the agreed quotation list.
Material Delivery
Panels, mounting structure, cables, and inverter arrive. Cross-check every item against the agreed quotation list.
Installation
Panels are mounted, wiring is done, and the inverter is installed. A 3kW system typically takes 1–2 days.
Installation
Panels are mounted, wiring is done, and the inverter is installed. A 3kW system typically takes 1–2 days.
DISCOM Application
Installer submits net meter application to your electricity board. This is the slow part — approval can take weeks.
DISCOM Application
Installer submits net meter application to your electricity board. This is the slow part — approval can take weeks.
Net Meter Activated!
DISCOM installs the bi-directional meter. Your system is live. You're now officially solar-powered!
Net Meter Activated!
DISCOM installs the bi-directional meter. Your system is live. You're now officially solar-powered!
🌤️ The Shadow Test (Do This Before Signing)
Stand on your roof at 9 AM and 4 PM. If you see shadow from a water tank, parapet, or tree — that area will lose 20–40% efficiency.
Maintenance — The ₹500/Month You're Losing to Dust
Solar panels are low-maintenance, not no-maintenance. Here's what you actually need.
The Dust Problem
A thin layer of dust can reduce your panel efficiency by 15%. On a 3kW system, that's ~2 units/day = ₹500 lost every month.
The Go-Live Checklist & FAQ
Before you sign anything, run through this list. It's saved people ₹50,000+ in mistakes.
✅ The Complete Go-Live Checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
Does solar work during rain or cloudy days?+
What if I move houses?+
Can I install solar in an apartment?+
What happens if the inverter fails after warranty?+
How long does the PM Surya Ghar subsidy take to arrive?+
Ready to Go Solar?
You've read the whole guide. Now run your numbers and see exactly what you'll save.
Calculate My SavingsDeep Dive Guides
Explore our in-depth articles on every aspect of going solar in India — from subsidies and hardware to maintenance and ROI.
PM Surya Ghar Subsidy 2026: Complete Application Guide
Step-by-step guide to applying for PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana subsidy in 2026. Eligibility, documents, subsidy amounts, and application process explained.
Mono-PERC vs Polycrystalline: Which Solar Panel for India?
Compare Mono-PERC and Polycrystalline solar panels for Indian conditions. Efficiency, cost, heat performance, and which type suits your roof best.
Net Metering in India: How It Works & State-Wise Rules
Understand net metering for rooftop solar in India. How bi-directional meters work, state-wise policies, surplus credits, and application process.
Solar Inverter Buying Guide: String vs Micro vs Hybrid
Complete guide to choosing the right solar inverter for your Indian home. Compare string, micro, and hybrid inverters — features, costs, and recommendations.
Solar Panel Cleaning & Maintenance: The Complete Schedule
How to clean and maintain your solar panels in India. Monthly schedule, DIY vs professional cleaning, tools needed, and how to avoid losing ₹500/month to dust.
How to Calculate Solar ROI: The Complete Formula Explained
Learn how solar ROI is calculated in India. Understand the formula, variables, payback period, and real-world examples for different states and bill amounts.
Solar Installation Checklist India 2026: The Complete Guide
Everything you need to do before, during, and after rooftop solar installation in India. 10-point site survey, 8-document checklist, 7-step vendor vetting, and 25 questions to ask your installer.