Varanasi is gearing up for a solar revolution. The Uttar Pradesh government has launched an aggressive campaign to install rooftop solar in 25,000 homes in the city!
But why is the state government promoting solar energy? It’s because this resource is clean and capable of addressing the increasing energy needs of the country. Moreover, solar power is cost-effective and helps homeowners save about 80% on their monthly electricity expenses.
If you’re thinking about setting up a rooftop solar plant, but have questions about the technology, benefits, subsidy, etc., this guide provides all the essential information you need.
What is Rooftop Solar?
Solar installations are of two types- ground-mounted and rooftop solar. Most households opt for rooftop solar where solar panels are installed over the roof of the building.
Every solar plant includes three main components- solar panels, solar inverter, and solar accessories such as junction boxes, cables, earthing material, etc.
The solar panels get fixed on mounting structures at an angle. You would require approximately 90-100 sq. ft shadow-free roof space to set up 1kW solar capacity.
Traditionally, solar panels are laid on the floor of the roof. But, if you don’t want to lose your roof space and desire a more optimized and modern solution, you can opt for an elevated solar structure like Ojas.
Ojas is an affordable and easy solar solution. It is an elevated structure where solar panels are installed at some height. As a result, you get a mini-powerhouse and a shaded spot underneath.
The best part about this solution is that it is extremely easy to install. Ojas solar plant can be installed within just four hours, using only three tools. Moreover, there is no welding required.
The structure is designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 180km/hr and is certified by IIT researchers. This certification guarantees that Ojas will remain standing even in the most powerful storms!
The solar structure looks neat and enhances the aesthetics of your roof. Not only that, Ojas utilizes your roof space better and more efficiently.
Advantages:
- Quick Installation, can assembled by 2 people
- Modular structure, no welding required
- Corrosion proof – built to last
- Can withstand wind speeds of up to 180km/hr
- Made in India product
- Ideal for 2kW-20kW rooftop solar capacity
Solar Subsidy in Varanasi
Solar subsidy is an incentive available to residential consumers of solar energy. A consumer can avail two subsidies in India- Central Financial Assistance by the central government and state subsidy.
The Indian government recently raised the solar subsidy under the newly launched Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. UP government also provides its additional solar subsidy. The details are as follows:
Central Financial Assistance
| Capacity | Solar Subsidy |
|---|---|
| 1-2kW | ₹30,000/kW |
| 3kW | ₹78,000 |
| Above 3kW | ₹78,000 (fixed) |
Uttar Pradesh Solar Subsidy
Residential consumers in Uttar Pradesh can avail a subsidy of ₹15,000/kW. However, every customer can claim only up to ₹30,000 in subsidy from the state.
Total Solar Subsidy Available to Consumers
| Plant Size | Central Subsidy | State Subsidy | Total Subsidy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1kW | ₹30,000 | ₹15,000 | ₹45,000 |
| 2kW | ₹60,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹90,000 |
| 3kW | ₹78,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹1,08,000 |
| 4kW | ₹78,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹1,08,000 |
| 5kW | ₹78,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹1,08,000 |
| 6kW | ₹78,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹1,08,000 |
| 7kW | ₹78,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹1,08,000 |
| 8kW | ₹78,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹1,08,000 |
| 9kW | ₹78,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹1,08,000 |
| 10kW | ₹78,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹1,08,000 |
How to Avail the Solar Subsidy
To apply for the central subsidy, a consumer has to submit an application on the National Portal for Rooftop Solar. On this portal, you can track everything from the application status to the transfer of funds to the customer’s bank account.
The state subsidy is dispersed by the Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA). It will be given to those consumers who are eligible for the central subsidy.
Benefits of Going Solar
1. Energy Savings:
The biggest advantage of going solar is the cost savings. By generating your electricity at home, you can reduce your dependence on the grid. Studies show that you can save up to 80% of your monthly energy bills through solar.
With a net meter, you can also send the surplus energy back to the grid and earn compensation.
2. Shorter Payback period
Though you will invest some capital in setting up your solar plant, you can recover this amount in 3-4 years because of the energy savings. After this period, all the electricity you generate is essentially free.
3. Buffer against Price Hikes
Grid electricity tariffs are constantly rising. But with solar, you will be completely protected against these price hikes for more than 25 years.
4. Government Subsidy and Policies
The Indian government provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to all residential solar consumers. This subsidy is available on rooftop solar plants of up to 10kW capacity.
Moreover, some states like UP also have their separate subsidy, bringing down the cost of installing solar.
In January 2024, MNRE made the process of applying for solar subsidy easier. Moreover, many states have introduced favourable solar policies which make solar adoption even more beneficial now!
5. Low Maintenance
A solar plant does not require a lot of maintenance. All you have to do is clean the panels with water once every 2 weeks (once a week in dusty/polluted areas). It is advisable to schedule maintenance checks every 6 months to ensure great system health.
You can also install a small water drainage clamp like Aqua with your solar panels. This extremely cost-effective tool prevents water from accumulating on the edges of the panels and boosts output by up to 10%.
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About Ornate Solar
Ornate Solar is a leading solar company with 8+ years of experience in the industry and the mission to reimagine the way solar is installed worldwide.
From advanced solar panels, innovative inverter solutions, and high-quality accessories to the unique InRoof that turns panels into the primary roof, we develop and deliver solutions that are modern, reliable, and effective.
If you are exploring solar in Varanasi, reach out to us at 011 43536666 to discuss your options.
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