Solar panels hold significant importance for households in Uttarakhand due to the abundance of sunlight in the region. They enable savings on electricity expenses, especially during power outages. Initiated by the Uttarakhand government in November of the preceding year, the program is slated for implementation during the fiscal years 2023-2028. As per the policy, the aimed total solar capacity is set at 2,000 MW.
Components of a Solar System
Wiring: Adequate wiring is indispensable for safely and efficiently connecting all components of the solar energy system. These wires facilitate the transmission of electricity from the solar panels to the inverter, batteries (if applicable), and ultimately to the household or the grid.
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How to apply for Net Metering?
Net metering is important for solar subsidies in Uttarakhand because it helps more people use clean energy. With net metering, solar panel owners can sell extra electricity back to the DISCOM and earn money. This encourages more people to choose solar power, which is good for the economy.
To apply for a net meter in Uttarakhand, follow these simple steps:
1. Register on Uttarakhand Power Corporation Ltd Portal.
2. Fill the application form for net meter.
3. Now, UPCL will assess the application and perform a technical feasibility evaluation.
4. If the technical feasibility is confirmed, you will be issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC). If you are eligible for a subsidy, UPCL will issue an In-Principle Sanction Letter.
5. Then submit the signed Power Purchase Agreement to UPCL and proceed with the installation of the solar rooftop system.
Type of Rooftop Solar System
On-Grid Solar System: Opting for an on-grid solar system can slash your electricity bill by up to 80%. This system, also referred to as a grid-tied solar system, is interconnected with the electricity grid, enabling significant savings on utility bills. Moreover, surplus electricity generated can be sold back to the DISCOM, providing an additional source of income.
Off-Grid Solar System: If you reside in a remote area or frequently encounter power outages, an off-grid solar system could be the ideal solution. It incorporates batteries to store excess energy for utilization during periods of insufficient sunlight.
Hybrid Solar System: Combining the features of both on-grid and off-grid systems, a hybrid solar system offers the best of both worlds. It operates as a grid-connected system with battery backup capabilities. This allows for storing surplus power for emergencies while also enabling the sale of excess electricity to the grid for monetary gains.
According to solar experts, the hybrid solar system emerges as the optimal choice. It not only reduces electricity expenses but also provides power backup during emergencies, making it a preferred option for residential installations.
Solar Panel Subsidy Scheme
Both central and state government offer subsidies schemes to people for installation the rooftops solar system.
Central government subsidy scheme:
The central government subsidy scheme, referred to as DBT (Direct Bank Transfer), entails the direct transfer of subsidy funds into the customer’s bank account within 30 days of the solar system’s commissioning. Accessing the central government subsidy involves applying through the National Portal for Solar.
State government subsidy scheme:
While these rates are generally applicable across most of the country, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) offers slightly higher Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to encourage solar adoption in northeastern states and regions with challenging hilly terrains.
Individual Households with a solar capacity of up to 3 kW: ₹17,662 per kW.
For rooftop solar capacity ranging from 3 kW to 10 kW: ₹17,662 per kW for the initial 3 kW and ₹8,831 per kW for the additional capacity. For plant capacities above 10kW, a fixed amount of ₹ 1,14,803 will be given
Solar Panel Subsidy Price
| Capacity | Central Subsidy | State Subsidy |
| 2 KW | 29,176 | |
| 3 KW | 43,764 | |
| 4 KW | 51,058 | |
| 5 KW | 58,352 | |
| 6 KW | 65,646 | |
| 7 KW | 72,940 | |
| 8 KW | 80,234 | |
| 9 KW | 87,528 | |
| 10 KW | 94,822 |
Both the central and state governments provide solar subsidies. In general category states, the central government contributes 30% of the total subsidy amount. However, in special states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, J&K, and Lakshadweep, the central government covers 70% of the subsidy amount. If your state does not offer a solar subsidy, you can access the central government subsidy by applying through the National Portal for Solar.
To qualify for the subsidy, certain guidelines must be followed. You should reach out to your electricity provider or DISCOM and apply online with the required documentation. A representative will conduct a site visit for evaluation and grant approval. Subsequently, an inspection by the electricity provider will take place, after which customers can access the subsidy amount.
What is the entire process?
To avail the solar subsidy, you should adhere to the following procedure:
Step 1: Schedule a site survey. Book an engineer visit from this link.
Step 2: Determine system capacity, costing, and performance analysis.
Step 3: Purchase the solar system and proceed with installation.
Step 4: Apply for net metering.
Step 5: Obtain the solar subsidy within 30 days of rooftop solar panel installation.