How to Apply for Rooftop Solar Subsidy?

Switching to solar power is one of the smartest investments you can make today—both for your wallet and the environment. Thanks to government initiatives, the upfront cost of rooftop solar installation has come down significantly, making it more affordable for homeowners. A key driver behind this affordability is the solar subsidy scheme offered by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana.

But how exactly do you apply for a rooftop solar subsidy in India? This article breaks down the process step by step, helping you take full advantage of the government incentives.

What is the Rooftop Solar Subsidy?

The Rooftop Solar Programme Phase II encourages residential users to adopt solar power by providing a central financial assistance (CFA) or subsidy. This subsidy helps reduce the upfront cost of purchasing and installing solar panels.

Under the PM Surya Ghar scheme, you can get up to ₹78,000 in subsidies depending on your system size. The subsidy is directly transferred to your bank account once the system is installed and approved.

Who is Eligible?

To avail the subsidy, you must:

• Be a resident individual (not a commercial/industrial entity)
  
  

• Own a residential building or house
  
  

• Have a grid-connected electricity connection
  
  

• Use only MNRE-approved vendors and components
  
  

• Apply through the official National Solar Rooftop Portal
  
  

How to Apply for Rooftop Solar Subsidy: Step-by-Step

Let’s look at the simplified application process to claim your solar subsidy:

Step 1: Register on the PM Surya Ghar Portal

• Visit the official site, PM Surya Ghar Portal

• Select your state and electricity distribution company (DISCOM)

• Enter your electricity Consumer Number and Mobile Number to register

• Verify OTP and create your login account
  
  

Step 2: Submit Application Details

Once you log in:

• Fill in your property details, such as address and DISCOM connection type
  
  

• Choose your desired solar system capacity (e.g., 2kW, 3kW)
  
  

• Upload a scanned copy of your latest electricity bill
  
  

Step 3: Select a Registered Vendor

After registration, you must choose a vendor from the list of MNRE-approved vendors available on the portal. These vendors are authorized to install systems eligible for the subsidy.

Step 4: System Installation

Once you finalize a vendor:

• The vendor visits your location for a site survey
  
  

• They provide a system design and quotation
  
  

• Upon confirmation, installation begins using approved panels and inverters
  
  

Make sure the vendor provides a completion report, photographs, and system details after installation.

Step 5: Net Meter Installation & Inspection

• After installation, your vendor will apply to your DISCOM (e.g., KSEB, BESCOM, etc.) for net metering.
  
  

• A DISCOM representative will inspect the installation and, if everything meets technical standards, approve the system.
  
  

• A net meter is installed to record the import/export of electricity.
  
  

Step 6: Upload Completion Documents

Once your system is live and grid-connected:

• Upload the commissioning report
  
  

• Submit installation photos and vendor invoices
  
  

• Provide bank account details for subsidy transfer
  
  

These documents help MNRE verify your claim.

Step 7: Get Your Subsidy

• After final approval by DISCOM and MNRE, your subsidy amount is credited directly to your registered bank account.
  
  

• This process usually takes 30–60 days after installation, depending on document verification and DISCOM processing.
  
  

Benefits of Claiming the Subsidy

• Reduced initial investment: Lower system cost means faster payback
  
  

• Shorter ROI period: Typically 3–5 years instead of 7–8 years
  
  

• Savings for 25+ years: Free electricity and credits through net metering
  
  

• Environment-friendly: Reduce your carbon footprint and dependency on fossil fuels
  
  

Conclusion

Going solar is no longer just an eco-conscious decision—it’s a financially smart one, especially with government subsidies making it more accessible than ever. By following the step-by-step process through the PM Surya Ghar portal, you can easily apply for a rooftop solar subsidy and reduce your electricity bills for years to come.

So don’t wait—harness the power of the sun and make your home energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and financially future-ready. Your journey to clean energy begins with one step: applying for the rooftop solar subsidy in Kerala.