There are several things to consider before installing rooftop solar. For example, how reputed is the company which manufactured the solar panels? Similarly, to get a subsidy, you must ask a DISCOM-empanelled vendor to install your system. Learn more about factors you must consider before installing a solar system.

Things To Consider Before Installing Rooftop Solar

The following are the points you should check before installing a rooftop solar system:

1. DCR-Certification and ALMM-Listing of Solar Panel Model

DCR means ‘Domestic Content Requirement’ and ALMM stands for ‘Approved List of Models and Manufacturers’.

For a panel to be DCR-certified, all its components must be made in India. ALMM is a list of models and manufacturers approved by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) for implementing government schemes.

To get solar panel installation subsidy under the PM Surya Ghar, you must install solar panel models which are listed in the ALLM and are DCR-certified.

2. Ensuring that DISCOM is Enlisted with MNRE

Your DISCOM must be enlisted with the MNRE for you to be eligible for the PM Surya Ghar subsidy. You can visit the PM Surya Ghar website to check if your DISCOM is enlisted with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

3. Contacting DISCOM-Empanelled Vendor for Installation

To be eligible for the PM Surya Ghar subsidy, you must contact a DISCOM-empanelled vendor to install your rooftop solar system. To find the names of vendors empanelled with your DISCOM, you can visit the website of PM Surya Ghar.

4. How Much Do You Want to Save Monthly?

Study your monthly electricity bills and check how much solar electricity you need to enjoy free electricity.

A 1 kW rooftop solar system can produce 4 units of electricity per day. So, a 3 kW system can generate 12 units/day. In a month, a 3 kW system will generate 12 x 30 = 360 units. You can accordingly calculate the capacity of the solar system you need to reduce your bills.

5. Type of Solar Panel You Will Install

One of the key factors to consider when buying solar panels is its technology. There are different types of panels in the market, including polycrystalline, monocrystalline, mono PERC, half-cut, and TOPCon. Each of them has a different efficiency and is suited to different situations.

For example, while a mono PERC solar panel has an efficiency of 20-21%, a TOPCon solar panel has an efficiency of 22-23%.

You must ask your vendor about the specifications of the panels he is installing in your solar system. At Das Energie Private Limited, you can get quotations from vendors along with information about the equipment they will install in your solar system.

6. Cost of Installing Solar System

The cost of a solar system depends on its capacity. DCR panels are more expensive than non-DCR panels but compulsory for getting the PM Surya Ghar subsidy.

Below we have shown the cost of installing the solar system after availing of the PM Surya Ghar subsidy:

7. Durability of Mounting Structure

The mounting structure should be resistant to corrosion and strong enough to support the solar panels for 25-30 years. A metal or steel galvanized with zinc is ideal for making the structure rust-resistant.

8. Installation of Net Meter

After installing the solar system, you need to set up net metering to measure the net import and export of electricity from the solar grid. You must contact your DISCOM to install the net meter.

9. Reputation of Manufacturing Company

Before buying a solar panel, you should check the experience and reputation of the company which manufactured it. The likelihood of a company honouring the warranty is much higher if it has a good reputation.

From DCR certification to the cost of installation, there are several things to consider before installing rooftop solar. You can avail of a central government subsidy of up to Rs. 78,000 to reduce the cost of installation. Clarity about your financial goals and budget will help you make an informed decision about buying the ideal solar panels for your home.