Free Solar Panel Scheme in India: PM Surya Ghar & State Programs

There is no scheme that provides solar panels completely free to homeowners. However, the PM Surya Ghar Yojana provides subsidies up to ₹78,000 that can cover 40–60% of the system cost for a 3kW system. Combined with state subsidies and zero-cost EMI plans, your effective out-of-pocket cost can be as low as ₹30,000–₹50,000 for a 1kW system — close to free when you factor in the electricity savings.

Several states offer additional incentives on top of the central subsidy:

• Gujarat — Additional state subsidy of ₹10,000/kW for systems up to 3kW, over and above PM Surya Ghar
• Rajasthan — Free solar panel scheme for BPL families under the Mukhyamantri Solar Mission
• Maharashtra — Interest subvention of 2% on solar loans through MEDA
• Punjab — Additional 50% state subsidy for SC/ST households
• Uttar Pradesh — UP Solar Policy offers additional incentives for residential installations in rural areas

State schemes change frequently. Check with your local DISCOM or state-wise subsidy guide for the latest information.

The RESCO (Renewable Energy Service Company) model is the closest to truly free solar. Here is how it works:

1. A solar company installs panels on your roof at zero cost to you
2. The company owns the system and sells you the generated electricity at a pre-agreed rate (typically ₹3–₹5/unit)
3. You save because this rate is lower than your DISCOM tariff (₹6–₹12/unit)
4. After the contract period (15–25 years), ownership transfers to you — or the company removes the system

Pros: Zero investment, immediate savings, maintenance handled by the company

Cons: Lower total savings than owning (you pay rent for 15–25 years), long lock-in period, roof access restrictions

RESCO is best suited for commercial and institutional buildings with large, unshaded rooftops. For residential consumers, subsidised purchase with EMI usually offers better long-term value.

Eligibility for PM Surya Ghar and most state schemes:

• Residential consumers only — Must have a valid domestic electricity connection
• One subsidy per household — Linked to your electricity consumer number
• Grid-connected system — Only on-grid systems qualify; off-grid and hybrid do not
• MNRE-registered vendor — Installation must be by an empanelled installer
• No income limit — PM Surya Ghar has no income ceiling for general category
• Roof ownership or NOC — You must own the roof or have written consent from the owner

→ Detailed eligibility criteria · Documents required

The application process is standardised across India:

1. Register on the PM Surya Ghar portal — pmsuryaghar.gov.in (linked to your electricity consumer number)
2. Get a feasibility report — Your DISCOM assesses your roof and approves net metering
3. Choose an empanelled installer — Select from the list on the portal or use Solar Vipani to compare verified installers
4. Install the system — Installer completes work within 60–90 days of DISCOM approval
5. DISCOM inspection — Net meter installed and system commissioned
6. Subsidy disbursement — Amount credited to your bank account within 30–60 days of commissioning

→ Step-by-step application guide

If someone promises completely free solar panels with no strings attached, proceed with caution. Common red flags:

• '100% free' claims — No legitimate scheme covers the entire cost. Even PM Surya Ghar covers 40–60%.
• Upfront fee for 'registration' — Government portal registration is free. Never pay a middleman for scheme access.
• Unknown installer brands — Always verify the installer is MNRE-empanelled on the official portal.
• No written agreement — Insist on a detailed quotation with component specs, warranty terms, and timeline.

Stick to verified installers and apply directly through the official PM Surya Ghar portal or your DISCOM office.

The best approach: get quotes from verified installers who handle the subsidy paperwork for you. Solar Vipani's installer network includes MNRE-empanelled vendors who process PM Surya Ghar applications as part of the installation service.

Get free solar quotes from subsidy-eligible installers →