India is moving fast toward clean and renewable energy, and one of the most effective steps in this journey is the Solar Rooftop Scheme. This government initiative encourages homes, businesses, and institutions to install solar panels on rooftops to generate their own electricity.
It’s not only a smart way to reduce your electricity bills but also a great way to contribute to a cleaner environment. Let’s understand what this scheme is all about, how it works, and how you can benefit from it.
What Is the Solar Rooftop Scheme
The Solar Rooftop Scheme is part of the Government of India’s mission to promote renewable energy and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. Under this scheme, individuals and organizations can install solar power systems on their rooftops and generate electricity for their own use.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) provides financial support and incentives to make solar adoption easier for everyone. The central government offers subsidies to reduce installation costs, making solar power more affordable for homes and small businesses.
How the Solar Rooftop System Works
A solar rooftop system works by converting sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) panels. When sunlight hits these panels, it produces direct current (DC) electricity. This electricity is then converted into alternating current (AC) through an inverter, which can be used to power lights, fans, TVs, and other household appliances.
If your solar panels produce more electricity than you consume, the extra power is sent back to the electricity grid through a process called net metering. This means you get credits for the energy you supply to the grid, which helps lower your future electricity bills.
Government Subsidy and Support
To make solar adoption more accessible, the government provides subsidies under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana and other rooftop programs.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the subsidy structure for residential users:
- For systems up to 2 kW, the subsidy is around 60% of the benchmark cost.
- For systems between 2 kW and 3 kW, the subsidy is about 40% of the benchmark cost.
- For systems above 3 kW, the subsidy is limited to the maximum applicable limit per household.
This financial aid significantly reduces the upfront cost of solar panel installation, making it affordable for middle-class families and small businesses.
Benefits of the Solar Rooftop Scheme
There are several reasons why installing a solar rooftop system is a great idea.
Reduced Electricity Bills: Once you install solar panels, your reliance on grid electricity drops. You can save a large amount every month, and in some cases, even earn by selling excess power to the grid.
Government Subsidy: The central and state subsidies lower installation costs, helping you recover your investment faster.
Low Maintenance: Solar panels require minimal maintenance. Occasional cleaning and yearly checks are enough to keep them efficient for decades.
Eco-Friendly Power: Solar power is 100 percent clean and renewable. By using it, you reduce your carbon footprint and help combat climate change.
Energy Independence: With your own solar setup, you become less dependent on electricity providers and rising power tariffs.
Long-Term Investment: Most solar systems last for over 25 years, offering long-term energy security and savings.
Eligibility and How to Apply
The Solar Rooftop Scheme is open to residential homes, housing societies, commercial buildings, educational institutions, government offices, and hospitals.
To apply, follow these simple steps:
- Visit the National Portal for Rooftop Solar at https://solarrooftop.gov.in
- Register using your electricity consumer number and fill out the application form.
- Choose an approved vendor from the provided list.
- Once your application is verified, installation can begin.
- After installation, inspection and approval are done by the local DISCOM.
- The subsidy amount is directly transferred to your bank account after completion.
The process is transparent, and the government ensures that the benefits reach genuine users without middlemen.
The Future of Solar Energy in India
India aims to achieve 280 GW of solar capacity by 2030, and rooftop systems play a key role in that target. With over 300 sunny days a year, our country has the perfect conditions to become a global solar leader.
By adopting the Solar Rooftop Scheme, every household can be a part of this clean energy movement. Whether you live in a city apartment or a small-town home, solar power can help you save money, reduce pollution, and contribute to a sustainable future.
Final Thoughts from SolarGyaan
At SolarGyaan, we believe that understanding and adopting renewable energy is the need of the hour. The Solar Power on Rooftop Scheme is not just a government program — it’s a vision to make India energy-independent and environmentally responsible.
If you have a rooftop, you have the potential to generate your own electricity. The sun’s energy is free — all you need is the right system to capture it. By going solar today, you invest in a cleaner, brighter, and more sustainable tomorrow.