Part of the complete guide: Net metering (complete guide)
Quick answer
For most Kerala homes, an on-grid system with net metering is cheapest and qualifies for subsidy. Choose hybrid only if you need backup during outages. Off-grid suits remote sites. On-grid systems switch off during a grid outage for safety.
Quick comparison
| On-grid | Hybrid | Off-grid | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery | No | Yes (optional size) | Yes (required) |
| Net metering | Yes | Yes | No |
| Works in power cut | No | Yes | Yes |
| Cost (3 kW) | ₹1.7–2.1 lakh | ₹2.6–3.8 lakh | ₹2.8–4 lakh |
| Subsidy | Yes | Typically for solar part | No |
| Payback | 3.5–5 yrs | 6–9 yrs | Long |
Do you need batteries in Kerala?
Kerala's grid is relatively reliable; outages are usually short. A small battery bank for essential loads (fans, lights, router) is often enough — sizing for the whole house multiplies cost.
Why on-grid shuts down in an outage
Anti-islanding protection prevents your solar from energising lines workers are repairing. This is mandatory and not a defect.
Always verify. Subsidy, tariff and price figures change. Confirm with the official portal, KSEB/TNPDCL and a written quote before paying any advance. Figures here are indicative for South Kerala & Kanyakumari.
