Free Solar Panel Scheme 2025 – Apply Online for Government Subsidy & Installation in India
The Indian government continues to promote renewable energy by introducing various solar subsidy and free installation programs for both rural and urban households. The Free Solar Panel Scheme 2025, also known as the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, is a major step towards energy independence and reducing electricity costs for families across India.
Under this scheme, eligible citizens can get rooftop solar panels installed with up to 100% subsidy based on the capacity and usage type. The initiative aims to empower households, farmers, and small businesses by reducing power bills and promoting sustainable living.
What Is the Free Solar Panel Scheme?
The Free Solar Panel Scheme 2025 is a government-sponsored program launched under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
Its objective is to provide affordable and sustainable electricity access to all citizens through subsidized or free rooftop solar installations.
The program focuses on:
- Residential rooftop solar installations
- Solar water pumps for farmers
- Solar grids in rural areas
- Net-metering to reduce dependency on DISCOM power supply
The scheme not only helps lower household expenses but also supports India’s long-term goal of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
Key Features of the Scheme
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana / Free Solar Panel Scheme 2025 |
| Implemented By | Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) |
| Type | Subsidy / Free Installation Program |
| Target Group | Residential Households, Farmers, Rural Families |
| Subsidy Amount | 40%–100% based on capacity |
| Capacity Range | 1 kW to 10 kW rooftop panels |
| Benefits | Free or low-cost solar panels, zero electricity bill, energy independence |
| Application Mode | Online via official portal |
| Helpline | DISCOM Solar Cell or MNRE helpline |
Main Objectives
- Promote Renewable Energy Use:
Encourage citizens to shift from conventional electricity to green energy sources. - Reduce Electricity Bills:
Families using solar panels can save ₹1,000–₹2,000 per month depending on consumption. - Empower Farmers and Villages:
Solar pumps and micro-grids help farmers irrigate lands efficiently. - Environmental Benefits:
Every 1 kW solar setup saves nearly 1.5 tons of CO₂ annually, contributing to climate protection.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Free Solar Panel Scheme 2025, the applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Applicant must be an Indian resident.
- Should own a house with rooftop space.
- The roof must be structurally strong to support panels.
- The applicant must have an active electricity connection.
- Household should not have availed similar solar subsidy benefits earlier.
- Preference is given to low-income and rural families.
Farmers applying under KUSUM Yojana category can also apply for solar water pumps under this initiative.
Documents Required
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar Card | Identity verification |
| Electricity Bill | Power connection proof |
| Ration Card | Family and income details |
| Property Ownership Proof | Verification of house ownership |
| Bank Passbook | For subsidy transfer |
| Passport Photo | Application identity |
| Mobile Number | For registration and OTP verification |
How to Apply for Free Solar Panel Scheme 2025
Follow these steps carefully to apply online for rooftop solar installation:
Step 1: Visit Official Portal
Go to the National Portal for Rooftop Solar (https://solarrooftop.gov.in) or visit your state’s DISCOM solar portal.
Step 2: Register as a Consumer
Click on “Apply for Rooftop Solar” and enter:
- State
- Electricity Distribution Company (DISCOM)
- Consumer Account Number
- Mobile number and Email ID
After OTP verification, your registration will be completed.
Step 3: Choose Your Vendor
Select an approved solar vendor from the MNRE vendor list.
Only registered vendors can install panels eligible for government subsidy.
Step 4: Submit Rooftop Details
Enter rooftop size, load capacity (in kW), and system type (grid-connected or hybrid).
Step 5: Upload Documents
Upload Aadhaar, electricity bill, property proof, and other required documents in PDF format.
Step 6: Application Verification
Your local DISCOM office will verify your details and inspect the rooftop suitability.
Step 7: Installation and Net-Metering
After approval, the vendor will install the panels and connect them to your power line with a net-meter.
Step 8: Subsidy Disbursement
Once installation is verified by DISCOM, subsidy will be directly credited to your registered bank account.
Subsidy Structure (as per MNRE Guidelines)
| Solar Capacity | Subsidy Rate | Average User Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 3 kW | 40% subsidy | ₹35,000 – ₹45,000 per kW |
| 3 kW – 10 kW | 20% subsidy | ₹30,000 – ₹40,000 per kW |
| Above 10 kW | As per state policy | Variable |
| Rural Households (PM Surya Ghar) | Up to 100% subsidy | Free installation |
The subsidy may vary slightly from state to state depending on DISCOM and MNRE rates.
State-Wise Implementation
Each state has its own renewable energy department or DISCOM partner managing rooftop solar applications.
| State | Applying Portal |
|---|---|
| Karnataka | https://bescom.karnataka.gov.in |
| Telangana | https://tsredco.telangana.gov.in |
| Andhra Pradesh | https://nredcap.in |
| Tamil Nadu | https://teda.in |
| Gujarat | https://surya.gujarat.gov.in |
| Maharashtra | https://mahasolar.mahaurja.com |
These portals allow consumers to track their solar application, vendor approval, and subsidy status online.
Benefits of Installing Rooftop Solar Panels
- Zero Electricity Bill:
Most 3 kW households can achieve 100% energy offset. - High Return on Investment:
Even without subsidy, payback occurs within 3–4 years through monthly savings. - Property Value Increase:
Solar-enabled homes have higher market value and long-term benefits. - Energy Independence:
Users become less dependent on grid power or diesel generators. - Tax Benefits & Carbon Credits:
Certain business users can claim tax deductions and sell carbon credits under global green programs.
Maintenance and Warranty
- Panel Life: 25 years
- Inverter Life: 10 years
- Maintenance: Cleaning panels once a month is enough.
- Warranty: Vendors provide a standard 5-year system warranty.
Regular performance monitoring can be done using mobile apps offered by most solar vendors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Installing through unapproved vendors (no subsidy eligibility)
- Providing incorrect rooftop measurements
- Missing out on net-metering application
- Forgetting to check DISCOM approval email/SMS
- Sharing incomplete bank details for subsidy transfer
Expected Savings Calculation
| Solar Capacity | Monthly Bill Saving | Annual Saving | Payback Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 kW | ₹900–₹1,200 | ₹12,000+ | 3 years |
| 3 kW | ₹2,500–₹3,500 | ₹35,000+ | 3 years |
| 5 kW | ₹4,500–₹5,000 | ₹60,000+ | 2.5 years |
Over 25 years, even a small 3 kW system can save ₹8–10 lakh in electricity bills.
Government Goals and Future Expansion
The central government’s “Har Ghar Solar” vision aims to bring solar energy to every home.
The scheme’s second phase (2025-2026) is expected to cover over 10 million households with full or partial subsidy.
Government is also integrating:
- Solar Battery Storage Incentives
- Smart Metering for Solar Users
- Low-interest loans through SBI, PNB, and Canara Bank
The Free Solar Panel Scheme 2025 is one of India’s most impactful renewable energy initiatives.
By adopting rooftop solar panels, households not only gain financial freedom from electricity bills, but also contribute directly to India’s green future.
If you own a house with a suitable rooftop, this is the best time to apply and get the benefits of free or subsidized solar power.
Through the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, millions of Indian families are expected to achieve clean and sustainable energy independence by 2030.