PM Surya Ghar Solar Subsidy 2026: 1kW, 2kW and 3kW Rooftop Solar Subsidy Guide

PM Surya Ghar Solar Subsidy 2026: A Practical Guide for Homeowners

Rooftop solar is becoming an important option for Indian households looking to reduce their dependence on grid electricity and manage long-term power costs. The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is the Government of India's major residential rooftop solar programme, designed to support rooftop solar adoption among households.

Under the scheme, eligible residential consumers can receive Central Financial Assistance (CFA) for an eligible grid-connected rooftop solar installation. The scheme was approved with an overall outlay of ₹75,021 crore and was designed to support rooftop solar installations for one crore households.

Not sure what size or subsidy fits your home? Try our free solar calculators and myth checker.

How Much Solar Subsidy Is Available?

The residential subsidy structure provides:

• ₹30,000 per kW for the first 2 kW.
• ₹18,000 per kW for the additional capacity between 2 kW and 3 kW.
• The maximum residential CFA is capped at ₹78,000 for systems above 3 kW.

This means that the subsidy calculation is based on the eligible rooftop solar capacity and the applicable scheme rules. Consumers should always verify the latest eligibility, vendor and DISCOM requirements before proceeding with an installation.

1kW, 2kW or 3kW Solar System: Which One Do You Need?

The right system size depends mainly on your electricity consumption, available rooftop space, system design and local conditions.

• 1kW solar system: Can be considered for households with relatively low electricity consumption.
• 2kW solar system: May be suitable for households with moderate electricity consumption.
• 3kW solar system: Often considered by households with higher electricity usage and greater rooftop solar requirements.

Instead of selecting a system only because of the subsidy amount, homeowners should first understand their electricity consumption and estimate the appropriate system capacity.

How Does the Rooftop Solar Process Work?

A typical residential rooftop solar process involves several stages:

1. Understand your electricity consumption and determine an appropriate system size.
2. Check the applicable rooftop solar scheme and eligibility requirements.
3. Apply through the relevant national or state process.
4. Select an eligible or empanelled vendor as applicable.
5. Complete the rooftop solar installation.
6. Complete the required DISCOM inspection and related formalities.
7. Complete the applicable metering and commissioning process.
8. Receive the eligible CFA according to the applicable scheme rules.

MNRE's rooftop solar information explains that CFA eligibility and transfer are connected with installation, verification and the applicable DISCOM process. Therefore, consumers should follow the current official procedure rather than relying only on unofficial subsidy calculators or advertisements.

Why Should You Calculate Before Installing Solar?

Solar installation is not simply about choosing the highest-capacity system. A proper estimate should consider your electricity consumption, rooftop area, system capacity, expected generation, installation requirements and applicable subsidy.

You can use the SolarConnect Solar Calculator to explore your solar requirements before discussing an installation.

You can also check the Solar Estimate Tool for a more structured estimate.

Important Things to Check Before Buying Rooftop Solar

• Check your average monthly electricity consumption.
• Evaluate the usable rooftop area.
• Understand the difference between on-grid, off-grid and hybrid systems.
• Compare panel technology and system components.
• Check inverter specifications and warranty.
• Understand installation and maintenance requirements.
• Confirm the applicable subsidy and DISCOM procedure.
• Use official government information when verifying subsidy rules.

On-Grid, Off-Grid or Hybrid Solar?

Different homes have different electricity requirements. An on-grid solar system is connected to the electricity grid, while an off-grid system generally uses battery storage to operate independently. A hybrid solar system combines grid connection with battery storage and solar generation.

Before selecting a system, understand your electricity requirement, backup needs and local grid conditions.

Read our detailed guide: On-Grid vs Off-Grid vs Hybrid Solar System.

Useful SolarConnect Tools

Related Solar Guides

• Solar Subsidy and Loan Process in India
• Solar Finance in India: Subsidy, Loans and EMI Options
• How to Choose the Right Solar System for Your Home
• Solar Full Kit: On-Grid, Off-Grid and Hybrid Systems

Final Thoughts

PM Surya Ghar can make residential rooftop solar more accessible by providing financial assistance to eligible households. However, the correct system size, installation quality, vendor selection and compliance with the applicable DISCOM and government process are equally important.

If you are planning rooftop solar, start by understanding your electricity consumption and calculating the required system capacity. Then compare your options and verify the latest official scheme information before installation.

Explore SolarConnect for solar information, tools, estimates and practical guides for homeowners and solar businesses.

Read More SolarConnect Blogs →