✅ Who is eligible?
Residential customers with a sanctioned load connection. Must use DCR (Domestically Manufactured Cells & Modules) panels. Must install through a DISCOM-empanelled vendor.
Free Solar Bill Calculator
Check how much you can save by switching to solar. Simply enter your monthly electricity bill to get an estimate of the recommended solar system size, installation cost, available subsidy, expected savings, and payback period. Get a quick idea of your solar investment and make smarter energy decisions with confidence.
How to Use This Solar Calculator
See how to calculate your solar costing.
Choose Your Input Method
Select whether to calculate based on your monthly electricity bill amount (₹), monthly units consumed (kWh), or available rooftop area (sq ft).
Enter Your Details
Enter your bill or consumption, select your state from the dropdown (auto-fills the correct tariff), and choose Residential or Commercial.
Set Subsidy Preference
Choose "With Subsidy" if you're a residential customer planning to use DCR panels through an empanelled installer under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
Get Your Solar Report
Click Calculate to instantly see system size, cost, subsidy, savings, payback period, ROI, and CO₂ offset. Share or print the report.
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana Subsidy Guide
India's largest rooftop solar subsidy scheme. Up to ₹78,000 off your installation cost.
Government of India • Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
Subsidy Amount by System Size
| System Size | Subsidy per kW | Total Subsidy | Approx. Net Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 kW | ₹30,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹30,000–₹45,000 |
| 2 kW | ₹30,000 | ₹60,000 | ₹70,000–₹90,000 |
| 3 kW | ₹18,000 (3rd kW) | ₹78,000 | ₹1,05,000–₹1,25,000 |
| 4 kW & Above | — | ₹78,000 (capped) | ₹1,72,000+ |
Net costs above are approximate using ₹65,000/kW gross price. Actual prices vary by brand and installer.
❌ Who is not eligible?
Commercial or industrial consumers. Residential customers using non-DCR panels. Customers who have already availed subsidy under a previous scheme.
📋 How to apply?
Register at pmsuryaghar.gov.in. Apply for net metering with your DISCOM. Install through an empanelled vendor. Submit completion certificate.
⌛ Processing time?
Typically 1–3 months after system installation and completion certificate submission. Subsidy is credited directly to your registered bank account.
Types of Rooftop Solar Systems in India
Choosing the right type of system depends on your power cut frequency, budget, and goals.
On-Grid Solar System
Most Popular • Subsidy EligibleConnected to the state electricity grid. Generates power during the day and exports excess power to the grid through net metering. No batteries required. Lowest-cost solar option.
- Cheapest installation cost
- Eligible for PM Surya Ghar subsidy
- Earn credits for excess power exported
- Best for homes with stable grid supply
- No power during grid outages
Off-Grid Solar System
Best for Power-Cut AreasNot connected to the grid. Uses batteries to store solar energy for use at night or during cloudy days. Fully energy-independent but costs more due to batteries.
- Works without grid connection
- Suitable for remote areas
- 24/7 power independence
- Higher cost due to battery bank
- Not eligible for PM Surya Ghar subsidy
Hybrid Solar System
Best of Both WorldsConnected to the grid and includes battery storage. Powers your home with solar, stores excess energy in batteries, and uses grid power when required.
- Battery backup during power cuts
- Grid connection for surplus export
- Maximum energy independence
- Higher upfront cost
- Best for high-tariff areas with outages
Solar Panel System Cost in India Price Guide
Indicative prices for on-grid rooftop solar systems including panels, inverter, mounting, wiring and installation. Before subsidy.
| System Size | Gross Cost (approx.) |
PM Surya Ghar Subsidy |
Net Cost (residential) |
Monthly Units Generated |
Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 kW | ₹60,000–₹75,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹30,000–₹45,000 | 90–120 units | Small flat, 1–2 ACs off |
| 2 kW | ₹1,20,000–₹1,50,000 | ₹60,000 | ₹60,000–₹90,000 | 180–240 units | 2 BHK, light usage |
| 3 kW | ₹1,80,000–₹2,10,000 | ₹78,000 | ₹1,02,000–₹1,32,000 | 270–360 units | 3 BHK, 1 AC, standard use |
| 5 kW | ₹2,80,000–₹3,20,000 | ₹78,000 | ₹2,02,000–₹2,42,000 | 450–600 units | Large home, 2–3 ACs |
| 10 kW | ₹5,50,000–₹6,50,000 | ₹78,000* | ₹4,72,000–₹5,72,000 | 900–1,200 units | Villa, small business |
*Subsidy is capped at ₹78,000 for systems above 3 kW. Actual prices may vary based on panel brand, inverter type, location, and installer. Compare multiple quotations before making a purchase decision.
Who Should Install Rooftop Solar in India?
Solar makes financial sense for anyone with a monthly electricity bill over ₹1,500 and usable rooftop space.
Homeowners (3+ BHK)
High monthly bills and permanent ownership make solar one of the best investments for independent house owners.
Commercial Offices
Offices with high daytime consumption (ACs, computers) see the fastest solar payback as peak usage matches peak generation.
Small Factories & Industries
Industrial tariffs can exceed ₹10/unit in some states. Solar dramatically cuts operating costs for SMEs.
Schools & Colleges
Large rooftops + daytime operations = ideal solar candidates. Many schools qualify for reduced-rate or subsidised systems.
Hotels & Restaurants
High, consistent electricity consumption makes hospitality one of the fastest-growing rooftop solar segments in India.
Farmers & Agri Pumps
Solar-powered irrigation pumps eliminate electricity bills and diesel costs. PM-KUSUM scheme provides dedicated agricultural solar subsidies.
Housing Societies (RWAs)
Common area loads (lifts, lighting, pumps, clubhouse) can be offset with rooftop solar, reducing every resident's maintenance fee.
Shops & Showrooms
Retail shops with heavy AC and lighting loads during the day benefit enormously, solar can cut electricity costs by 60–80%.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about to Solar Bill Calculator.
How much does a 1 kW solar system cost in India?
A 1 kW rooftop solar system costs approximately ₹60,000–₹75,000 gross in India. With PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana subsidy (₹30,000 for 1 kW), the net cost for eligible residential customers comes down to ₹30,000–₹45,000. Prices vary by brand, panel type (monocrystalline vs. polycrystalline), inverter brand, and installer. Always get at least 3 quotes from DISCOM-empanelled vendors.
What is PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and how much subsidy do I get?
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is the Indian government's flagship rooftop solar subsidy programme launched in 2024. It provides: ₹30,000 per kW for the first 2 kW (total ₹60,000 for 2 kW); ₹18,000 for the additional 3rd kW (total ₹78,000 for 3 kW); the subsidy is capped at ₹78,000 for systems above 3 kW. It is applicable only for residential customers using DCR (Domestically Manufactured Cells and Modules) panels through DISCOM-empanelled installers. Register at pmsuryaghar.gov.in.
What is the payback period for rooftop solar in India?
The payback period for rooftop solar in India is typically 4–7 years, depending on your state's electricity tariff and local sun hours. In high-tariff states like Maharashtra (₹9/unit) or Delhi (₹8/unit), payback can be as short as 4 years. In lower-tariff states, it may take 6–7 years. With PM Surya Ghar subsidy reducing your net cost, payback improves further. Over a 25-year panel lifespan, total net savings typically range from ₹2 lakh to ₹8 lakh for a 3 kW residential system.
How many solar panels do I need for my home?
The number depends on your consumption and panel wattage. As a rough guide using 400W panels: a 3 kW system uses 7–8 panels and is sufficient for a typical 3 BHK home consuming 250–350 units/month. A 5 kW system uses 12–13 panels and suits larger homes. Enter your monthly bill above to get an exact recommendation for your state's tariff and sun hours.
How much electricity does a 3 kW solar system generate per month in India?
A 3 kW rooftop solar system generates approximately 300–450 kWh (units) per month in India. In high-irradiance states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka (5.5–6.0 peak sun hours/day), it can reach 480 kWh/month. In lower-irradiance or monsoon months, generation is lower. Annually, a 3 kW system produces roughly 3,600–5,400 kWh. Our calculator uses state-specific peak sun hours to give you the most accurate estimate.
How much roof area is needed for solar panels?
Approximately 80–100 square feet (7–10 sq metres) of shadow-free flat rooftop per kW of solar capacity. So: 1 kW = 100 sq ft; 3 kW = 250–300 sq ft; 5 kW = 400–500 sq ft. The area must be shadow-free between 9 AM and 4 PM (avoid areas shaded by water tanks, parapets, or neighbouring buildings). South-facing roof sections give the best output in India.
What is the difference between on-grid and off-grid solar?
An on-grid system is connected to the state electricity grid. Excess solar power is exported back via net metering and credited to your account. No batteries needed, lowest cost, and eligible for PM Surya Ghar subsidy. However, it provides no power during grid outages. An off-grid system is completely independent, uses batteries, works through outages, but costs more and is not subsidy-eligible. A hybrid system combines both grid connection plus battery backup for the best of both worlds.
Does solar work during monsoon or winter in India?
Yes. Solar panels generate electricity on cloudy and overcast days typically at 10–25% of peak capacity. India's annual averages account for monsoon months, so yearly production estimates are realistic. Most of India receives 300+ sunny days per year, making it one of the world's best countries for solar returns. Panels are rated for all weather, including rain, and most come with 25-year performance warranties.
Is this solar calculator accurate?
This calculator provides accurate indicative estimates based on average state tariffs and NREL/MNRE irradiance data for India. It uses the same calculation methodology as professional solar sizing tools. However, actual performance depends on your specific roof orientation, shading, panel efficiency, inverter losses, and exact tariff slab. Use this for initial budgeting and decision-making. For a precise quote, have an empanelled installer do an on-site assessment.
What is net metering and how does it benefit solar users?
Net metering is a billing arrangement where your solar system is connected to the grid. When your panels generate more than you consume, the surplus is exported to the grid and credited to your electricity account at a set rate. When you consume more than you generate (nights, cloudy days), you draw from the grid and that is debited. You pay only the net difference. Net metering is available in most Indian states and significantly improves your solar return by ensuring you never "waste" solar energy.