India is fast shifting toward clean and renewable energy sources, with solar power leading the way. To make solar panels and battery backup systems more affordable and accessible, the government has introduced several schemes that allow households, farmers, and small businesses to benefit directly from solar installations.
Whether you’re aiming to reduce your electricity bills, avoid frequent power cuts, or contribute to a greener environment, these government schemes make solar adoption easier than ever.
What Is the Solar Panel and Battery Scheme?
The Indian government’s solar initiative aims to promote rooftop solar systems with or without battery storage. These schemes offer subsidies of up to 60% for eligible users. In some states, homeowners can even sell the extra solar energy back to the grid and earn credits or cash.
A major recent initiative is the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (https://solarrooftop.gov.in), launched in February 2024. It provides up to 300 free electricity units per month to one crore households through solar panel installations.
What Is a Solar Battery System?
A solar battery system is used to store excess solar power generated during the daytime. This stored energy can be used at night or during power cuts. For areas with unreliable grid electricity, solar batteries ensure uninterrupted power. Some systems support net metering, where extra electricity is exported to the grid, helping users earn credits or income.
Benefits of Installing Solar Panels at Home
Installing rooftop solar systems can reduce electricity bills by up to 90%. Homes with battery backups no longer worry about power cuts. Through net metering, households can generate income from unused energy. Solar systems require minimal maintenance and last for 20 to 25 years. These systems also contribute to environmental sustainability by using clean, green energy. Subsidy and EMI options are available to make the systems more affordable for everyone.
Government Subsidy on Solar Panels in India (2025)
Government subsidy varies based on the capacity installed. For systems between 1 kW to 3 kW, users can receive up to 40% subsidy. For 3 kW to 10 kW systems, subsidy goes up to 20%. Institutions or larger systems may not receive a subsidy or may be eligible for custom schemes. If a battery backup is included, some states provide additional incentives.
Subsidy amounts are directly transferred to the applicant’s bank account via the official National Rooftop Solar Portal (https://solarrooftop.gov.in).
Top Government Solar Schemes in 2025
The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (https://solarrooftop.gov.in) was launched to support one crore homes with up to 300 free electricity units per month. The scheme includes subsidies of up to ₹78,000 on rooftop solar installations and offers quick online applications.
The KUSUM Yojana (https://mnre.gov.in) focuses on solar pumps and grid-connected solar plants for farmers. It offers up to 60% subsidy for solar water pump installations and related infrastructure.
Many states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu also run separate schemes. These state-level initiatives often include additional subsidies, installation support, and incentives for battery storage in remote regions.
Eligibility Criteria for Government Solar Schemes
Applicants must be Indian citizens. Rooftop access and property ownership documents are required. The applicant should have electricity bills and property records in their name. An Aadhaar-linked mobile number and a bank account are typically needed. For agricultural schemes, land ownership and pump usage documents may be necessary.
How to Apply for Solar Panel Scheme in India
Visit the National Rooftop Solar Portal (https://solarrooftop.gov.in) and register using your electricity connection number. Select a registered vendor from your state. The vendor will conduct a rooftop survey. After installation and inspection, your subsidy will be credited directly to your bank account. Some vendors also offer EMI options starting as low as ₹1000 per month.
Cost of Installing Solar Panels in India (2025)
A 1 kW solar system without battery costs between ₹65,000 to ₹80,000, while a system with battery backup costs around ₹1,10,000 to ₹1,40,000. A 3 kW system ranges from ₹1,50,000 to ₹1,80,000 without battery, and ₹2,00,000 to ₹2,50,000 with battery. For 5 kW systems, the cost ranges between ₹2,50,000 to ₹3,00,000 without battery and ₹3,50,000 to ₹4,00,000 with battery.
After applying government subsidies, the actual cost can reduce by up to 40% depending on location and system size.
Who Should Install a Solar Battery System?
If you live in rural or semi-urban areas where power cuts are frequent, a solar battery ensures continuous power supply. People with work-from-home setups, medical equipment, or small businesses that require 24/7 power can benefit greatly. Remote locations where electricity is unstable or unavailable should strongly consider solar battery systems.
Top Solar Panel and Battery Brands in India
Reliable and government-approved brands include Tata Power Solar, Loom Solar, Luminous, Vikram Solar, and Waaree Energies. For batteries, trusted names are Amaron and Exide. It’s important to install products from MNRE-approved vendors (https://mnre.gov.in) to remain eligible for subsidies and ensure long-term performance.
Final Thoughts
Solar energy is no longer a future dream—it’s today’s opportunity. With government support, installing solar panels and battery systems is affordable, simple, and beneficial. From saving money on electricity bills to enjoying uninterrupted power and helping the environment, the benefits are immense.
If you’re ready to switch to solar, visit the official Rooftop Solar Portal (https://solarrooftop.gov.in) and apply today.
