How to Apply for Rooftop Solar Subsidy in India: Step-by-Step Guide

Installing rooftop solar panels can help homeowners reduce electricity bills and switch to clean energy. Under the Government of India`s PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, eligible residential households can receive financial assistance for installing rooftop solar systems.

The subsidy application process is managed through the official National Portal for Rooftop Solar. Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for the subsidy, selecting an approved vendor and receiving the financial assistance.

What Is the PM Surya Ghar Solar Subsidy Scheme?

The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is a central government initiative designed to encourage residential rooftop solar installations across India.

The scheme provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to eligible households installing grid-connected rooftop solar systems.

Rooftop Solar Subsidy Amount

The subsidy covers 60% of the benchmark cost for the first 2 kW and 40% of the additional benchmark cost for the next 1 kW, subject to the scheme`s applicable guidelines.

Eligibility for Rooftop Solar Subsidy

Before applying, homeowners should check the following eligibility requirements:

- The applicant must be an Indian citizen.

- The household must have a valid electricity connection.

- The property must have a suitable rooftop for solar panel installation.

- The applicant must not have already received another government subsidy for the same solar installation.

- The installation must comply with the scheme`s technical requirements and use an eligible registered vendor.

Step-by-Step Solar Subsidy Application Process

Step 1: Register on the Official Portal

Visit the official PM Surya Ghar National Portal:

https://www.pmsuryaghar.gov.in

Select the rooftop solar registration option and provide your state, electricity distribution company (DISCOM), electricity consumer number, mobile number and email address.

Step 2: Submit the Rooftop Solar Application

Log in using your consumer number and registered mobile number. Complete the rooftop solar applicatioion by entering the required details, including the proposed solar system capacity.

Submit the application and wait for your DISCOM to provide technical feasibility approval.

Step 3: Choose a Registered Solar Vendor

After receiving feasibility approval, select a registered rooftop solar vendor through the National Portal.

Compare vendors, system specifications, pricing and customer reviews before making your decision.

Step 4: Install the Solar Panels

The selected vendor will install the rooftop solar system according to the approved specifications and applicable technical standards.

Keep the installation documents and required photographs for submission through the portal.

Step 5: Apply for Net Metering

Once installation is complete, submit the required system details and apply for a net meter through the portal.

The DISCOM will inspect the installation and arrange for the required meter installation and commissioning process.

Step 6: Receive the Commissioning Certificate

After the installation passes inspection and the required metering arrangements are completed, the commissioning certificate will be generated through the National Portal.

This certificate confirms that the rooftop solar system has been commissioned under the scheme.

Step 7: Submit Bank Details for Subsidy

Log in to the portal and submit your bank account details along with a cancelled cheque or other accepted bank verification document.

Ensure that the account details match the applicant`s information to avoid payment delays.

Step 8: Receive the Subsidy

After successful verification and processing, the eligible subsidy will be transferred directly to the applicant`s bank account.

The government has published a 30-day subsidy transfer timeline in its application guidance. Actual processing may vary depending on verification and the latest scheme procedures.

Official Resources for Solar Subsidy Applicants

- https://www.pmsuryaghar.gov.in/

- https://mnre.gov.in/

Conclusion

Applying for a rooftop solar subsidy in India is a straightforward online process when homeowners follow the official application steps. By registering on the PM Surya Ghar portal, obtaining feasibility approval, installing the system through a registered vendor and submitting verified bank details, eligible households can access government financial assistance and reduce their electricity expenses.