Solar Panel Subsidy in Punjab, 2024

Nandni Mishra

Categories: Solar Subsidy

The Indian state of Punjab has been at the forefront of the country’s renewable energy revolution, with a strong focus on promoting solar power. In 2024, the state government has continued its efforts to make solar energy more accessible and affordable for its residents through the Solar Panel Subsidy scheme. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the details of this subsidy program, its eligibility criteria, the application process, and the potential benefits for homeowners in Punjab.

Understanding the Solar Panel Subsidy in Punjab

The Solar Panel Subsidy in Punjab is a financial incentive provided by the state government to encourage the adoption of rooftop solar systems among residential consumers. The subsidy is offered through the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL), the state’s electricity distribution company.

Subsidy Rates

The subsidy rates for the Solar Panel Subsidy in Punjab are as follows:

Solar System Capacity	Subsidy Rate
Up to 3 kW	40% of the benchmark cost
3 kW to 10 kW	40% for the first 3 kW, and 20% for the additional capacity up to 10 kW
Group Housing Societies (GHS) / Residential Welfare Associations (RWA)	20% of the benchmark cost, up to a maximum of 500 kWp for the entire society

It’s important to note that the subsidy is calculated based on the lower of the benchmark cost or the cost arrived through a competitive process.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Solar Panel Subsidy in Punjab, you must meet the following criteria:

You must be a residential consumer of PSPCL.
Your rooftop must be suitable for installing a solar system.
The solar system must be grid-connected and comply with the technical specifications set by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
The maximum capacity for availing the subsidy is 10 kW per household.

How to Apply Online for Solar Panel Subsidy

Step 1: Register on the National Portal for Rooftop Solar

Visit the official website of the national portal for the rooftop (https://solarrooftop.gov.in/) and click on the “Register Here” button.
Fill in the required details, such as your state, DISCOM, electricity consumer number, mobile number, and email address. Proceed as per the directions provided on the portal.

You have to download an app on your mobile with the name SANDS App QR code to scan for registration.
Then it will be asked to enter your mobile number and OTP will be sent to your mobile. Please complete the save registration process.

You can access the homepage once your registration has been completed successfully.
On the homepage, you may find the login section. Enter your consumer account number and registered mobile phone number, then click the login button to apply online at the National Solar Rooftop Portal.

Step 3: View State Wise DISCOM Portal Links

First, go to the official website of the national gateway for rooftop solar panels, “solarrooftop.gov.in”.
The homepage will be shown in front of you.
Select the DISCOM information option, then click on the DISCOM Portal Links.
The screen will offer portal links organized by state.
View state-specific DISCOM portal links.
Click on the portal of your choice to apply.

Apply Now For Solar Panel Subsidy in Punjab

How much subsidy on solar can be availed?

The Central Government offers a 30% subsidy on grid-connected solar rooftop power plants through MNRE. Government institutions, including PSUs, are not eligible for the subsidy but will receive achievement-linked incentives/awards. CFA is available for residential and institutional buildings, as well as the social sector.

System	Govt. Subsidy	Customer Price
Up to 3kW	40%
Above 3kW to Upto 10kW	20%
Above 10kW	0%
Cost of 3kW Solar System	Without Subsidy	1,80,000
Customer Payable Amount	With Subsidy (- Rs. 72,000)	1,08,000
Cost of 5kW Solar System	Without Subsidy	3,00,000
3kW	40% Subsidy (3*24,000)	-72,000
2kW	20% Subsidy (2*12,000)	-24,000
Customer Payable Amount	With Subsidy (-96,000)	2,04,000
5kW – Generation	Benefits	Units – Rs. 7.5/U
Daily Genration	25 Units	187
Monhtly Genration	625 Units	4687
Yearly Generation	7,500 Units	56, 250
Lifetime Generation	1,87,500 Units	14,06,250
Return on Investment		3.6 years
Income		6.89X
	Installation Area
1.	Mono Perc	500 sq.ft.
2.	Shark 440W – 540W	300 sq.ft.

Source Loom Solar

Benefits of the Solar Panel Subsidy in Punjab

The Solar Panel Subsidy in Punjab offers several benefits to residential consumers, including:

Reduced Electricity Bills: By generating your own solar power, you can significantly reduce your dependence on the grid and lower your electricity bills.
Environmental Benefits: Switching to solar energy helps reduce your carbon footprint and contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable environment.
Increased Property Value: Installing a rooftop solar system can increase the value of your property, making it a valuable long-term investment.
Potential Earnings: With net metering, you can earn credits for the excess solar power you generate and feed back into the grid.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To be eligible for the subsidy, you must be a residential consumer of PSPCL, have a suitable rooftop for installing a solar system, and ensure that the system is grid-connected and complies with the technical specifications set by the MNRE.

The maximum capacity for availing the subsidy is 10 kW per household. For Group Housing Societies (GHS) and Residential Welfare Associations (RWA), the total capacity should not exceed 500 kWp.

Once you submit your bank details and a cancelled cheque through the National Portal for Rooftop Solar, the subsidy will be credited to your account within 30 working days.

It is mandatory to get the solar system installed by a vendor registered or empanelled with PSPCL. The vendor must follow the minimum technical specifications and standards set by the MNRE.

The solar PV modules must be warranted for their output peak watt capacity, which should not be less than 90% at the end of 10 years and 80% at the end of 25 years. The mechanical structures, electrical works, and overall workmanship of the solar power plant must be warranted against any manufacturing/design/installation defects for a minimum period of 5 years.

Conclusion

The Solar Panel Subsidy in Punjab is a valuable opportunity for residential consumers to embrace renewable energy and save on their electricity bills. By following the step-by-step application process and meeting the eligibility criteria, you can take advantage of this government initiative and contribute to a more sustainable future. Remember to choose a reputable vendor and ensure that your solar system meets the required technical specifications to maximize the benefits of the subsidy.