The Government of India, through the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), has launched the Solar Rooftop Yojana to promote the adoption of solar energy in the country. This scheme provides a subsidy to residential consumers who install rooftop solar systems. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of applying for the Solar Rooftop Yojana subsidy online.
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Understanding Solar Rooftop Yojana
Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of how to apply online for Solar Rooftop Yojana Subsidy, let’s make sure we’re all on the same wavelength about what this scheme actually is.
What is Solar Rooftop Yojana?
The Solar Rooftop Yojana is a flagship program launched by the Indian government to promote the use of solar energy across the country. It’s part of the larger National Solar Mission, which aims to establish India as a global leader in solar energy.
Here’s the deal in a nutshell:
- The government provides financial incentives (that’s the subsidy part) to encourage people to install solar panels on their rooftops.
- These solar panels generate clean, renewable electricity that can power your home or business.
- Any excess electricity can be fed back into the grid, potentially earning you credits on your electricity bill.
It’s like having your own mini power plant right on top of your house. Cool, right?
Benefits of the scheme
Now, you might be wondering, “What’s in it for me?” Well, let me tell you, the benefits are as bright as the Indian sun!
- Reduced electricity bills: Solar power can significantly cut down your monthly electricity expenses.
- Energy independence: Generate your own power and reduce reliance on the grid.
- Environmental impact: Solar energy is clean and renewable, helping to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Financial incentives: The subsidy helps offset the initial installation costs.
- Potential income: If you generate more power than you use, you might be able to sell it back to the grid.
- Increased property value: Solar installations can boost the value of your property.
Eligibility criteria
Before you get too excited and start planning where to place those shiny new solar panels, let’s check if you’re eligible for the Solar Rooftop Yojana Subsidy. The good news is that the criteria are pretty inclusive:
- Residential buildings (individual homes or housing societies)
- Institutional buildings (schools, colleges, hospitals)
- Social sector buildings (community centers, welfare homes)
- Commercial and industrial establishments
However, there are a few conditions to keep in mind:
- The building should have a suitable roof area with adequate sunlight exposure.
- The solar system should be grid-connected (off-grid systems are not eligible for this particular subsidy).
- The capacity of the solar system should be between 1 kW to 500 kW.
- The solar panels and other equipment must meet the standards set by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
Now that we’ve covered the basics, are you ready to take the next step towards your solar-powered future? In the next section, we’ll dive into how to prepare for your application. Trust me, with the right preparation, applying for the Solar Rooftop Yojana Subsidy will be a breeze!
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How to Apply Online for Solar Rooftop Yojana 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.
Step 2: Login and Apply for Rooftop Solar
- 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.
When will you get the solar subsidy?
The central government subsidy will be credited immediately to the beneficiary’s bank account after 30 working days of receiving the bank account details and uploading all needed papers.
What documentation and information are necessary for an online application for solar roof subsidies?
- Electricity connection/consumer number (as shown on the electricity bill), email address, and mobile number.
- A copy of the most recent electricity bill.
- Bank information and a copy of the canceled check.
- Approved / Empaneled sellers under the solar rooftop subsidy scheme.
- Vendors willing to register/empanel themselves in the Program under simplified procedure may get themselves registered with the consumers’ DISCOM by submitting an application along with a declaration (as per Annexure) and submitting a PBG of Rs. 2,50,000/- (Rupees Two Lakh Fifty Thousand only), valid for at least five years
- Suppliers can submit applications at the Department/Circle level, and their names will be added to the list of registered/empaneled suppliers within one month of submission.
- Vendor registration/empanelment will be valid for one year from the date of empanelment and can then be renewed annually.
- The DISCOM will notify registered suppliers about residential customer information on its website, which will be updated monthly.
- The registered vendor chosen by the beneficiaries will conduct a physical assessment to assess the RTS capacity and advise the beneficiary on the RTS capacity that can be installed in the beneficiary’s premises based on technical and financial considerations.
- The seller will also assist the beneficiary in obtaining essential approvals, installing the net meter, and arranging DISCOM inspection.
Conclusion
Applying for the Solar Rooftop Yojana subsidy is a straightforward process that can help you save on your electricity bills while contributing to a cleaner environment. By following the steps outlined in this guide and using the National Portal for Rooftop Solar, you can easily apply for the subsidy and enjoy the benefits of solar energy.
FAQ
The Solar Rooftop Yojana is a scheme launched by the Government of India to promote the adoption of solar energy in the country. It provides a subsidy to residential consumers who install rooftop solar systems.
To be eligible, you must be a residential consumer of an electricity distribution company (DISCOM) in India, have a suitable rooftop for installing a solar system, and install a grid-connected rooftop solar system with a capacity between 1 kW and 10 kW.
The amount of subsidy depends on the capacity of your solar system and the benchmark cost set by the MNRE. For systems up to 3 kW, the subsidy is 40% of the benchmark cost. For systems above 3 kW and up to 10 kW, the subsidy is 40% for the first 3 kW and 20% for the remaining capacity.
Once you submit your bank details and a cancelled cheque through the National Portal for Rooftop Solar, the central government subsidy will be credited to your account within 30 working days.
You must install the solar system using a vendor registered or empanelled with your DISCOM. The system must meet the minimum technical specifications and standards set by the MNRE.