Why Solar Panels Matter in Uttarakhand
With abundant sunlight, Uttarakhand offers an excellent opportunity for households to harness solar energy, reducing electricity costs and ensuring power backup during outages. The state government, in collaboration with the central government, launched a solar subsidy program in November 2023, set to run until 2028. The initiative aims to achieve a total solar capacity of 2,000 MW, making renewable energy more accessible and affordable for residents.
Understanding Solar System Components
Essential Parts of a Solar Setup
A solar energy system consists of several key components, each playing a vital role in energy production and storage:
- Solar Panels: Convert sunlight into electricity.
- Inverter: Converts DC electricity from panels into usable AC power.
- Batteries (if applicable): Store excess power for later use.
- Wiring & Connections: Ensure safe and efficient energy transmission.
Why Proper Wiring is Essential
Proper wiring is crucial for connecting your solar panels with the inverter and battery storage. It ensures seamless energy transmission, minimizes energy losses, and enhances system efficiency.
How to Apply for Net Metering in Uttarakhand
Net metering allows solar panel owners to sell excess electricity back to the grid, helping them earn credits on their electricity bills. Here’s how you can apply:
- Register on the Uttarakhand Power Corporation Ltd (UPCL) Portal.
- Complete the online application for net metering.
- UPCL evaluates the application for technical feasibility.
- Receive a No Objection Certificate (NOC) if approved.
- Submit a signed Power Purchase Agreement and proceed with the installation.
This system promotes renewable energy use while ensuring financial benefits for solar adopters.
Types of Rooftop Solar Systems
1. On-Grid Solar System
- Best for: Urban areas with a stable power supply.
- Benefits: Reduces electricity bills by up to 80%.
- How it works: Directly connected to the power grid; excess energy is sold back to DISCOM.
2. Off-Grid Solar System
- Best for: Rural or remote areas with frequent power outages.
- Benefits: Provides energy independence with battery storage.
- How it works: Stores solar power in batteries for later use, ensuring continuous power supply.
3. Hybrid Solar System
- Best for: Households looking for energy security and savings.
- Benefits: Combines the advantages of on-grid and off-grid systems.
- How it works: Uses batteries for backup while selling excess energy to the grid.
Experts recommend hybrid solar systems as the ideal solution for both cost savings and energy reliability.
Solar Panel Subsidy Schemes in Uttarakhand
The government provides subsidies through both central and state initiatives to make solar energy affordable.
1. Central Government Subsidy (DBT Scheme)
- Direct Bank Transfer (DBT): The subsidy amount is transferred directly into the beneficiary’s bank account within 30 days of system installation.
- Application Process: Register through the National Portal for Solar.
2. State Government Subsidy
Enhanced financial assistance is provided to encourage solar adoption in hilly and northeastern states.
Subsidy rates:
- Up to 3 kW: ₹17,662 per kW
- 3-10 kW: ₹17,662 per kW for the first 3 kW, ₹8,831 per kW for additional capacity.
- Above 10 kW: ₹1,14,803 fixed amount.
In special category states (Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, J&K, Lakshadweep), the central government covers up to 70% of the subsidy.
Solar Panel Subsidy Price Breakdown
| 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 | – |
To qualify for the subsidy:
- Apply online through your electricity provider’s portal.
- Provide necessary documentation.
- Undergo a site inspection by a DISCOM representative.
- Post-installation, an official inspection & approval is conducted.
- Subsidy amount is credited to your bank account.
Step-by-Step Process to Avail the Solar Subsidy
Step 1: Schedule a Free Site Visit
Get an assessment from a certified solar provider to determine your solar capacity needs.
Step 2: System Planning & Cost Estimation
Decide on system type (on-grid, off-grid, hybrid) based on your location and energy needs.
Step 3: Purchase & Installation
Buy the solar system from a MNRE-approved vendor and proceed with installation.
Step 4: Apply for Net Metering
Submit the required documents to UPCL to get approval for grid connectivity.
Step 5: Receive Your Solar Subsidy
After installation, claim the subsidy within 30 days by submitting relevant documents.