How to Get Free Solar Scheme in India – Up to 80 Percent Subsidy
The Government of India has launched a major rooftop solar scheme that allows households to install solar panels at very low cost, and in some cases almost free, through central and state subsidies that together can go up to 80 percent. This initiative is designed to reduce electricity bills, promote renewable energy, and help middle-class and lower-income families.
This article explains how the free solar scheme works, who is eligible, how much subsidy you get, how to apply online, documents required, and how electricity bills can become zero.
What Is the Free Solar Scheme in India?
The flagship rooftop solar scheme is officially called:
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana
Under this scheme:
- Households can install rooftop solar panels
- Get up to 300 units of free electricity per month
- Receive large subsidies directly in bank account
- Reduce electricity bills to zero or near zero
The scheme is implemented through the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) along with state electricity boards.
Is 80 Percent Solar Subsidy Really Available?
Yes, up to 80 percent effective subsidy is possible when:
- Central Government subsidy
- State Government additional subsidy
- Net metering benefits
- Savings on electricity bills
are combined.
Central Government Subsidy (Confirmed)
Provided by Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
| Solar Capacity | Subsidy Amount |
|---|---|
| Up to 2 kW | High subsidy per kW |
| 2 kW to 3 kW | Reduced subsidy |
| Above 3 kW | No central subsidy |
Maximum central subsidy goes up to ₹78,000.
State Government Subsidy
Many states like:
- Karnataka
- Gujarat
- Maharashtra
- Tamil Nadu
- Telangana
offer additional state-level subsidy, which increases the total benefit significantly.
When combined, households often pay only 20 to 30 percent of total system cost.
Who Is Eligible for Free Solar Scheme?
You are eligible if:
- You are an Indian citizen
- You own a house with rooftop
- You have a domestic electricity connection
- Electricity bill is in your name
- Rooftop is suitable for solar installation
This scheme is not for commercial buildings.
How Much Does a Solar System Cost After Subsidy?
Approximate example:
| System Size | Market Cost | Subsidy | You Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 kW | High | Major subsidy | Very low |
| 2 kW | Higher | Large subsidy | About 25 percent |
| 3 kW | High | Maximum subsidy | About 30 percent |
After installation, monthly electricity bill can become zero.
How to Apply for Free Solar Scheme Online (Step by Step)
Step 1: Visit Official Solar Portal
Go to the official rooftop solar portal managed by MNRE.
Step 2: Select Your State & Electricity Board
Choose:
- Your state
- Your electricity distribution company (DISCOM)
Step 3: Register Using Electricity Details
Enter:
- Consumer number
- Mobile number
- Address details
Step 4: Submit Rooftop Solar Application
Choose:
- Required solar capacity
- Rooftop type
Step 5: Site Inspection
DISCOM officer checks:
- Roof size
- Sunlight availability
- Safety conditions
Step 6: Installation by Approved Vendor
Solar panels are installed by government-approved vendors only.
Step 7: Net Meter Installation
A net meter is installed to:
- Export extra electricity to grid
- Reduce your bill further
Step 8: Subsidy Credit
Subsidy amount is directly transferred to your bank account through DBT.
What Is Net Metering and Why It Matters?
Net metering allows:
- Extra solar electricity → sent to grid
- Units exported → adjusted in your bill
- Lower or zero electricity bill
This benefit increases overall savings, making the system almost free over time.
Documents Required
Only basic documents are needed:
- Aadhaar card
- Electricity bill
- Bank account details
- Passport size photo
- Proof of house ownership
No agents or middlemen are required.
How Much Electricity Is Free?
Under PM Surya Ghar Yojana:
- Up to 300 units per month free
- Excess power earns bill credit
- Annual savings can be very high
Major Benefits of Free Solar Scheme
- Zero electricity bill
- One-time investment
- Subsidy directly to bank
- Eco-friendly energy
- Property value increases
- Power during daytime outages
Common Myths About Free Solar Scheme
Myth: Solar is completely free
Truth: Initial payment required, but subsidy + savings make it almost free
Myth: Solar works only in summer
Truth: Works even in cloudy weather
Myth: Maintenance is costly
Truth: Very low maintenance
Important Things to Remember
- Apply only on official government portal
- Choose approved vendors
- Rooftop should be shadow-free
- Do not pay full amount before approval
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this scheme available all over India?
Yes, it is available in most states, subject to DISCOM participation.
Can tenants apply?
No, only house owners can apply.
How long does installation take?
Usually within a few weeks after approval.
Will subsidy come before installation?
No, subsidy comes after installation and inspection.
Click Hear to Apply
The Free Solar Scheme in India with up to 80 percent subsidy is one of the best government benefits for households. Through PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, you can drastically reduce or completely eliminate your electricity bills, while contributing to clean energy.
If you own a house and pay regular electricity bills, this is the right time to apply.