PM Surya Ghar Yojana 2026: Full Subsidy Guide, Eligibility & How to Apply
Share
What Is PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana?
If rising electricity bills are becoming a concern for your household, installing rooftop solar has become one of the most practical ways to reduce your dependence on grid electricity.
The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is a Government of India initiative designed to encourage residential households to install rooftop solar systems.
Under the scheme, eligible residential consumers can receive Central Financial Assistance (CFA), commonly referred to as a solar subsidy, of up to ₹78,000 for qualifying rooftop solar installations.
The scheme makes residential solar more affordable by reducing the homeowner's initial investment while allowing the household to generate electricity from its own rooftop for years.
But how much subsidy can you actually get in 2026? Who is eligible? And what size solar system should you install?
Here is the complete breakdown.
PM Surya Ghar Subsidy Amount in 2026
Under the currently applicable CFA structure, residential households can receive:
| Rooftop Solar Capacity | Central Subsidy |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | ₹30,000 |
| 2 kW | ₹60,000 |
| 3 kW | ₹78,000 |
| Above 3 kW | Maximum ₹78,000 |
The subsidy structure provides ₹30,000 per kW for capacity up to 2 kW.
For the additional capacity between 2 kW and 3 kW, another ₹18,000 is available.
Therefore, a qualifying 3 kW or larger residential rooftop installation can receive a maximum central subsidy of ₹78,000 under the standard structure.
No additional Central Financial Assistance is currently provided for individual household capacity beyond 3 kW.
Example
Suppose you decide to install a 5 kW rooftop solar system.
You may still be eligible for subsidy, but the Central Financial Assistance would normally be capped at ₹78,000, rather than increasing for all 5 kW.
This distinction is important when comparing quotations for 3 kW, 5 kW and larger residential solar systems.
How Does the PM Surya Ghar Subsidy Work?
The subsidy is intended to reduce the effective cost of installing an eligible grid-connected rooftop solar system.
The basic process involves:
-
Registering on the official PM Surya Ghar portal.
-
Submitting your rooftop solar application.
-
Obtaining the required feasibility/approval from your DISCOM.
-
Selecting a registered vendor.
-
Installing the approved rooftop solar system.
-
Applying for the required metering and inspection.
-
Completing commissioning requirements.
-
Submitting the required bank details and subsidy-related information.
-
Receiving the applicable subsidy after successful verification and approval.
Actual procedures and timelines can vary depending on the DISCOM and location.
Who Is Eligible for PM Surya Ghar Yojana?
The scheme primarily targets residential electricity consumers installing rooftop solar.
A household generally needs an eligible residential electricity connection and a suitable rooftop where the solar system can be installed.
The system must also comply with the applicable scheme, technical, vendor and DISCOM requirements.
Important: Commercial Properties Are Different
If you run a shop, factory, warehouse, office or other commercial establishment, do not automatically assume that the same residential subsidy will apply.
The household CFA under PM Surya Ghar is specifically structured for the residential sector.
Commercial solar can still make strong financial sense because businesses can reduce daytime grid consumption, but its economics should be calculated separately from residential subsidy benefits.
Documents You May Need for PM Surya Ghar Application
Keep your basic electricity and banking documents ready before starting the process.
Depending on the portal/DISCOM requirements, information or documents may include:
-
Electricity consumer/account details
-
Recent electricity bill
-
Applicant details
-
Mobile number
-
Email address, where required
-
Bank account details
-
Cancelled cheque or relevant bank proof
-
Rooftop/property-related information where applicable
Requirements can change or vary by DISCOM, so always check the current instructions displayed during your application.
How to Apply for PM Surya Ghar Yojana Online
Applications should be initiated through the official PM Surya Ghar portal.
Step 1: Register on the Portal
Visit the official PM Surya Ghar website and begin your registration.
You will need to select or provide information such as your:
-
State
-
Electricity distribution company (DISCOM)
-
Consumer number
-
Mobile number
-
Other requested details
Step 2: Apply for Rooftop Solar
After registration, log in and complete the rooftop solar application.
Choose the proposed solar capacity carefully.
The ideal system should be selected based on your electricity consumption, available roof area, sanctioned load and applicable DISCOM rules rather than simply choosing the largest system available.
Step 3: Complete Feasibility Requirements
Your DISCOM processes the application according to the applicable technical and grid-connectivity requirements.
Proceed according to the approval/process shown for your application.
Step 4: Choose an Eligible Vendor
Installation under the subsidy mechanism needs to follow the applicable PM Surya Ghar requirements.
Do not choose a system based purely on the lowest quotation.
A rooftop solar plant is expected to operate for many years, so component quality, structure quality, electrical protection, installation workmanship and after-sales support matter significantly.
Step 5: Install the Solar System
After the necessary approval, the rooftop system can be installed according to the sanctioned specifications and applicable technical standards.
Your installation typically includes components such as:
-
Solar PV modules
-
Solar mounting structure
-
Grid-connected inverter
-
DC and AC protection
-
Cables and connectors
-
Earthing
-
Other required balance-of-system components
Step 6: Metering, Inspection & Commissioning
After installation, the relevant metering and commissioning procedures need to be completed according to your DISCOM's process.
Step 7: Submit Subsidy Details
After successful commissioning and completion of the required portal process, submit the necessary bank and subsidy information.
The applicable CFA is released subject to successful verification and scheme requirements.
Which Solar System Size Should You Choose?
This is where many homeowners make a mistake.
A bigger solar system is not automatically a better solar system.
Your ideal capacity depends primarily on:
-
Monthly electricity consumption
-
Daytime electricity usage
-
Available shadow-free roof area
-
Sanctioned electricity load
-
Local solar generation conditions
-
Budget
-
Future electricity requirements
As a simple starting point:
| Monthly Electricity Consumption | Capacity to Explore |
|---|---|
| Up to ~150 units | Around 1–2 kW |
| ~150–300 units | Around 2–3 kW |
| ~300–500 units | Around 3–5 kW |
| 500+ units | 5 kW or higher may be worth evaluating |
These are only indicative ranges. Actual generation and the right capacity depend on location, roof orientation, shading, equipment and other site conditions.
A proper site and electricity-bill assessment should be completed before purchasing a system.
Is a 3 kW Solar System the Best Choice Under PM Surya Ghar?
For many households, 3 kW is an important capacity to evaluate because it reaches the current maximum central subsidy of ₹78,000.
However, that does not mean every home should automatically install 3 kW.
For example, a household with very low electricity consumption may not need that capacity.
On the other hand, a household using air conditioners, multiple appliances, pumps and other high-load equipment may benefit from evaluating a 5 kW or larger system even though the central residential subsidy is capped after 3 kW.
The right decision should therefore be based on electricity consumption and long-term savings, not subsidy alone.
Can You Get Free Electricity Under PM Surya Ghar?
The phrase “Muft Bijli” can sometimes create confusion.
Installing solar does not mean every household will automatically receive an electricity bill of exactly ₹0.
Your actual bill after installing rooftop solar depends on several factors, including:
-
Solar system capacity
-
Electricity consumption
-
Solar generation
-
Import and export of electricity
-
Net-metering/billing rules
-
Fixed electricity charges
-
DISCOM regulations
A properly sized rooftop solar system can significantly reduce the electricity purchased from the grid, but the exact savings will vary from one household to another.
How Much Roof Space Does Solar Need?
Roof-space requirements vary with module wattage, layout, spacing, access requirements, shading and the type of mounting structure.
Higher-wattage modern solar modules can generate more capacity using fewer panels than older, lower-wattage modules.
Before installation, your installer should check:
-
Available shadow-free area
-
Roof strength
-
Panel orientation
-
Tilt angle
-
Water tanks and obstructions
-
Parapet-wall shadows
-
Maintenance access
-
Mounting structure requirements
A professional site survey is therefore preferable to estimating capacity from roof size alone.
On-Grid vs Hybrid Solar: Which Is Better?
On-Grid Solar
An on-grid system is connected to the utility grid and is commonly used when the main objective is to reduce electricity bills.
It generally has a lower upfront cost than a battery-backed hybrid system.
However, a standard grid-connected inverter normally shuts down during a grid outage for safety reasons.
Hybrid Solar
A hybrid solar system can combine solar panels, grid electricity and battery storage depending on its configuration.
It is worth considering if your area experiences frequent power cuts and backup is a priority.
Battery storage increases the initial investment, so the choice between on-grid and hybrid solar should depend on whether your priority is:
maximum bill savings or bill savings plus backup power.
Things to Check Before Buying a Rooftop Solar System
Do not evaluate a solar quotation only by its final price.
Check the complete system.
Solar Panels
Compare module technology, wattage, applicable certifications and manufacturer warranties.
Inverter
The inverter is a critical component of the solar system. Choose the right type and capacity based on your system design and whether you require grid-only operation or battery backup.
Solar Mounting Structure
The structure supports the solar modules for years under outdoor conditions.
Its design, material, fabrication quality and installation are important for long-term system safety and performance.
Electrical Protection
Proper earthing, DC/AC protection, cables and connectors are essential parts of a safe installation.
Installation & After-Sales Support
Solar is a long-term investment.
Choose an installer/vendor who can provide appropriate technical guidance and after-sales support instead of focusing only on the cheapest upfront quotation.
Why Solar Makes Sense Even Beyond the Subsidy
The ₹78,000 maximum central subsidy can significantly reduce the initial investment for an eligible residential rooftop system.
But subsidy is only one part of the calculation.
A good rooftop solar system can continue generating electricity for many years.
That means the real financial benefit comes from the electricity you avoid purchasing from the grid over the system's operating life.
As electricity tariffs rise, self-generated solar power can become increasingly valuable.
Get the Right Solar System for Your Home
Choosing between a 2 kW, 3 kW, 5 kW or larger solar system should start with your electricity bill and actual consumption.
Vigood Solartek can help you understand the solar components and system requirements suited to your application, including solar installation kits, mounting structures, inverters, batteries and other solar solutions.
Before purchasing, calculate:
Your electricity usage → Recommended solar capacity → Applicable subsidy → Estimated system cost → Expected savings
This gives you a much clearer picture than simply buying a system because it qualifies for a subsidy.
Need Help Choosing Your Solar Setup?
Share your latest electricity bill and city with Vigood Solartek to discuss a suitable solar system and understand the components required for your installation.
Frequently Asked Questions About PM Surya Ghar Yojana 2026
What is the maximum subsidy under PM Surya Ghar Yojana?
Under the currently applicable standard CFA structure for residential households, the central subsidy can reach ₹78,000 for a 3 kW or larger qualifying rooftop solar system. No additional household CFA is provided for capacity beyond 3 kW under this structure.
How much subsidy is available for a 1 kW solar system?
An eligible 1 kW residential rooftop solar system can receive ₹30,000 in Central Financial Assistance under the standard structure.
How much subsidy is available for a 2 kW solar system?
An eligible 2 kW residential rooftop solar system can receive ₹60,000.
How much subsidy is available for a 3 kW solar system?
An eligible 3 kW residential rooftop solar system can receive up to ₹78,000.
Is there subsidy for a 5 kW solar system?
A qualifying residential 5 kW rooftop system can fall under the scheme, but the standard central household subsidy is currently capped at ₹78,000, because no additional CFA is provided for capacity beyond 3 kW.
Is PM Surya Ghar available for commercial shops?
The residential CFA discussed in this guide is intended for eligible residential consumers. Businesses should evaluate commercial rooftop solar separately based on electricity consumption, tariff, system cost and applicable regulations.
Can I install batteries with rooftop solar?
Battery storage can be considered where backup during power cuts is required. The system design and eligibility of components/configuration should be checked against the current scheme and technical requirements before purchase.
Where can I apply for PM Surya Ghar Yojana?
Applications should be made through the Government of India's official PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana portal and processed according to the applicable DISCOM procedure.
Disclaimer: Subsidy amounts, eligibility requirements, technical standards and DISCOM procedures may be amended by the Government of India or relevant authorities. Verify the latest applicable rules on the official PM Surya Ghar/MNRE portal before making a purchase or investment decision.
