West Bengal Solar Subsidy: An Overview for 2025
The Indian government has taken a significant step towards promoting solar energy adoption with the approval of Rs. 75,021 crore under the ‘PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana’ in February 2025. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance for rooftop solar panel installations, helping households transition to renewable energy.
If you’re a resident of West Bengal, understanding the eligibility criteria, required documents, and application process is crucial to benefit from this scheme. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the solar subsidy in West Bengal in 2025.
Why Switch to Solar in West Bengal?
The electricity rates in West Bengal continue to rise, making solar energy an attractive alternative:
- WBSEDCL Tariff: Rs. 5.00/kWh (up to 100 units) | Rs. 7.69/kWh (above 100 units)
- CESC Tariff: Rs. 5.08/kWh (up to 100 units) | Rs. 9.26/kWh (above 100 units)
With power costs increasing annually, investing in solar energy can help reduce dependency on the grid and lower monthly electricity bills. To encourage this transition, the government is offering a subsidy of up to Rs. 78,000 for eligible homeowners.
West Bengal Solar Subsidy for Rooftop Solar Systems
The solar subsidy amount depends on the capacity of the solar system installed. Here’s how much financial aid you can receive:
| System Capacity (KW) | Solar Subsidy (Rs.)* |
| 1 KW | Rs.30,000 |
| 2 KW | Rs.60,000 |
| 3 KW or above | Rs.78,000 |
This financial aid helps homeowners offset the upfront costs, making solar panel installation more accessible and affordable.
Eligibility Criteria for Solar Subsidy in West Bengal
To qualify for the solar subsidy program in 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. On-Grid Solar System Requirement
- The subsidy applies only to grid-connected rooftop solar systems.
- Off-grid solar plants are NOT eligible for this subsidy.
2. Use of DCR (Domestic Content Requirement) Solar Modules
- The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) mandates the use of DCR-certified solar panels.
- These panels must be manufactured in India (both solar modules and cells).
- If non-DCR panels are used, the system will not qualify for the subsidy.
3. Installer Empanelment with WBSEDCL
- The solar system must be installed by an MNRE-approved vendor.
- The installer must be empanelled with WBSEDCL (West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited).
- Using an unregistered installer will disqualify the applicant from receiving the subsidy.
4. General Requirements
- The property owner and subsidy applicant must be the same person.
- The electricity meter must be registered in the applicant’s name.
- The applicant must be an Indian resident.
West Bengal Electricity DISCOMs & Subsidy Eligibility
In West Bengal, multiple DISCOMs (Distribution Companies) operate, but only WBSEDCL is registered with MNRE. This means that to receive a government subsidy, your electricity provider must be WBSEDCL.
List of DISCOMs in West Bengal:
- West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL)
- Durgapur Project Limited
- Calcutta Electric Supply Corporation (CESC)
Role of Solar Installers in Claiming Your Solar Subsidy
- As per MNRE guidelines, only an empanelled solar installer can help you apply for and receive the subsidy.
- WBSEDCL is the sole MNRE-registered DISCOM in West Bengal.
- Your chosen solar installer will handle the documentation and submit the necessary forms for direct bank transfer of the subsidy amount.
How to Apply for Solar Subsidy in West Bengal?
- Step 1: Choose a MNRE-approved and WBSEDCL-registered solar installer.
- Step 2: Submit an application through the official WBSEDCL portal or National Rooftop Solar Portal.
- Step 3: Await verification and site inspection approval from WBSEDCL.
- Step 4: Install the solar system upon approval.
- Step 5: Post-installation, WBSEDCL will inspect and validate the system.
- Step 6: The subsidy amount is credited directly to your bank account.
Benefits of Installing Solar Panels Under This Scheme
- Lower electricity bills with free solar power generation.
- Government-backed subsidy lowers installation costs.
- Protection from rising power tariffs and energy inflation.
- Minimal maintenance with a 25-year solar panel lifespan.
- Environmental benefits by reducing carbon emissions.