Solar FAQ: subsidy, cost, net metering & maintenance in Kerala
Straight answers to the most common questions homeowners, institutions and farmers ask before going solar.
Cost & savings
How much does a 3 kW solar system cost in Kerala in 2026?
Roughly ₹1.7–2.1 lakh before subsidy. After the ₹78,000 PM Surya Ghar subsidy, the net cost is about ₹0.9–1.3 lakh. See the 3 kW cost guide.
How much can I save on my KSEB bill with solar?
A well-sized system can cut the energy-charge portion of your bill by 80–95%. You still pay fixed charges, duty and any minimum charges. A 3 kW system generates ~4,400 units a year, worth ₹25,000–₹35,000 at typical tariffs.
What is the payback period of rooftop solar in Kerala?
Typically 3.5–5 years for homes after subsidy, and 3–5 years for institutions with higher commercial tariffs. Panels last 25+ years.
How many units does 1 kW of solar produce in a day in Kerala?
About 4 units (kWh) per day on annual average, around 1,450 units a year, varying with season, tilt and shading.
Subsidy & finance
What is the PM Surya Ghar subsidy amount?
₹30,000 per kW up to 2 kW and ₹18,000 for the third kW, so ₹60,000 for 2 kW and ₹78,000 for 3 kW or more. Residential households only. Verify current terms on pmsuryaghar.gov.in.
Who is eligible for the solar subsidy?
Indian residential households with a valid electricity connection and a suitable roof of their own, installing through a registered vendor with DCR-compliant modules. Apartment complexes (RWA/GHS) get ₹18,000/kW for common facilities.
Can I get a loan for solar panels?
Yes. Banks offer concessional loans for rooftop solar, including schemes under PM Surya Ghar for systems up to 3 kW, and regular green or home-improvement loans for larger systems. See solar loans.
When is the subsidy credited?
After installation, net-meter commissioning and DISCOM inspection, the subsidy is credited to your bank account, generally within about 30 days of the commissioning report.
KSEB & TNPDCL net metering
What is net metering?
A bi-directional meter records the electricity you import and export. Surplus solar units are credited against your consumption, reducing your bill. See our KSEB application guide.
How do I apply for solar net metering in Kerala?
Register your system with KSEB (feasibility and agreement), install through an empanelled vendor, then KSEB inspects and installs the bi-directional meter. Most installers handle the paperwork; we explain each step.
Does net metering in Kanyakumari work differently?
Kanyakumari falls under TNPDCL in Tamil Nadu, so TNPDCL and TNERC rules apply. See the TNPDCL guide.
Will my solar work during a power cut?
A standard on-grid system shuts down during a grid outage for safety. To run appliances in an outage you need a hybrid inverter with batteries or a backup arrangement.
Equipment & maintenance
What are DCR panels and why do they matter?
DCR (Domestic Content Requirement) modules use Indian-made cells and are mandatory for PM Surya Ghar subsidy. They usually cost somewhat more than imported-cell modules.
How often should solar panels be cleaned in Kerala?
Every 4–6 weeks in dry months and after heavy dust or bird droppings; monsoon rain cleans lightly but moss and salt film (coastal areas) need periodic attention. See maintenance guide.
How long do solar panels and inverters last?
Panels carry 25-year performance warranties and often last 30 years. String inverters typically last 8–12 years; plan for one replacement in the system's life.
Can solar charge an electric vehicle?
Yes — a 3–5 kW system can cover most daily charging for an EV scooter or car. See solar + EV.