Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a solar panel and how does it work?
A solar panel captures sunlight and converts it into electricity using solar cells. This electricity can be used to power your home appliances.
Why should I install solar panels at home?
- Save money on your electricity bill
- Get up to 25 years of clean, free energy
- Reduce your carbon footprint
- Become less dependent on power cuts or rising tariffs
Is solar energy safe for my home?
Yes! Solar energy is completely safe. The systems are designed to handle heat and weather, and they come with built-in safety protections.
Can I run my home completely on solar power?
Yes, depending on your electricity usage and roof space, you can run your entire home on solar power — including lights, fans, fridge, TV, and even ACs.
Will solar panels work on cloudy days or in winter?
Yes. While production may reduce a bit during cloudy days or winters, solar panels still generate power as long as there’s daylight.
How long do solar panels last?
Good quality solar panels last for 25 years or more. Some may even continue working beyond that, just with slightly reduced efficiency.
Is any maintenance required for solar panels?
Very little. You just need to clean the panels once or twice a month with plain water to remove dust. No complex servicing is needed.
What is the cost of installing solar panels?
It depends on the size of the system. A small home system (like 3kW) can cost around ₹1.5–1.8 lakh before subsidy. After government subsidy, this can reduce by 30–40%.
Can I get a government subsidy?
Yes! Under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, you can get 30–40% subsidy on home solar installations. You must apply through the official portal: pmsuryaghar.gov.in
Will my electricity bill become zero?
In many cases, yes! If your solar system is well-sized for your home, your monthly electricity bill can drop to almost ₹0 — especially in on-grid systems.
Is my home suitable for solar panel installation?
If your rooftop gets at least 5–6 hours of direct sunlight daily and has enough shadow-free space, it’s likely ideal for solar panels.
How much space do I need for solar panels?
- On average, 1 kW of solar panels requires 80–100 sq. ft. of shadow-free space.
- A 3 kW system needs about 300 sq. ft., and a 5 kW system requires around 500 sq. ft.
How long does it take to install a solar system?
Typically, residential solar installations take 3 to 7 days, depending on system size, structure, and local approvals.
Do I need to take any government permissions?
Yes. If you are applying for government subsidy or net metering, approvals from your local DISCOM (electricity board) are required. The vendor usually assists with this.
What types of solar systems are available?
- On-Grid: Connected to the electricity grid; no batteries; reduces your bill.
- Off-Grid: Standalone system with batteries; ideal for remote areas.
- Hybrid: Combines both grid and battery backup for uninterrupted power.
Will the panels damage my rooftop?
No, solar panels are installed using non-invasive mounting structures. In fact, they protect the roof area underneath from direct sun and rain.
Can I run heavy appliances like AC on solar?
Yes, with the right system size (e.g., 3–5 kW or higher), you can easily run air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, etc., on solar power.
What kind of maintenance is required?
- Clean the panels with water once or twice a month (no detergent).
- Get a technical inspection done once a year.
- Keep panels free of dust and shade for best performance.
How much does solar installation cost?
Approximate costs (before subsidy):
- 3 kW: ₹1.5 – ₹1.8 lakh
- 5 kW: ₹2.2 – ₹2.8 lakh
- 10 kW: ₹4.0 – ₹5.5 lakh
- (After subsidy, the cost reduces by up to 30–40%.)
Is EMI or financing available?
Yes, many sellers provide simple EMI options that last from 12 to 36 months, which helps most families pay in smaller, manageable amounts.
What is net metering and how does it work?
Net metering is a billing mechanism that allows you to export excess solar power to the grid. The exported units are deducted from your electricity bill, which helps you save more. If you generate more than you consume, your bill can be near zero.
How do I choose between monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels?
- Monocrystalline panels offer higher efficiency and take up less space — ideal for small rooftops.
- Polycrystalline panels are slightly less efficient but more affordable, and suitable if space isn’t a concern.
What is the difference between string inverter and microinverter systems?
- String inverters connect multiple panels in a series; cost-effective but performance drops if one panel underperforms (e.g., due to shading).
- Microinverters are installed on each panel, offering better efficiency and performance monitoring, but at a higher cost.
How does battery backup integration work in a solar system?
In Off-grid or hybrid solar systems, batteries are used to save extra electricity that is generated by the sun during the day. This stored electricity can then be used to supply power to your home at night or when there is no electricity from the grid. Common types of batteries used are lithium–ion and lead–acid.
Can I upgrade my solar system later?
Yes, most systems are scalable. You can add more panels or batteries later based on your energy needs — as long as your inverter and structure support expansion.
How can I monitor my solar system’s performance?
Most modern systems come with a mobile app or web dashboard that lets you track:
- Daily energy production
- Energy consumption
- Savings
- Alerts for faults or underperformance
How much power loss happens due to shading or weather?
Shading, dust, and cloud cover can reduce output by 10–30% or more, depending on the severity. Regular cleaning and proper panel placement can reduce these losses.
What warranties should I expect on solar components?
- Solar Panels: 25 years (performance warranty)
- Inverter: 5–10 years (extendable)
- Battery (if used): 3–10 years depending on type
Make sure to check both product warranty and performance guarantee.
What happens during a power outage in an on-grid system?
In an on-grid system, solar power shuts off during a blackout to protect grid workers. To get power during outages, you need a hybrid or off-grid system with battery backup.
Can I use solar power during the night?
Yes, but only if your system includes battery storage (off-grid or hybrid). On-grid systems don’t supply power at night unless paired with batteries.
What are the main things that can influence how well a solar PV system performs?
Performance ratio is influenced by:
- Module efficiency and degradation rate
- Inverter efficiency
- System losses (wiring, mismatch, temperature, soiling)
- Tilt angle and orientation
- Shading and albedo
- Typical PR ranges from 75% to 85% in India.
What is the typical CUF (Capacity Utilization Factor) for rooftop systems in India?
For rooftop solar, CUF generally ranges between 14% to 20% depending on:
- Location and solar irradiance
- System design and quality
- Maintenance frequency
- Utility-scale plants can achieve higher CUFs due to optimal setups.
What are the key parameters in selecting an inverter?
Expert selection should consider:
- MPPT range (input voltage window)
- Efficiency (above 97% is ideal)
- Surge handling capacity
- Communication protocols (Wi-Fi, RS485, Modbus)
- Compliance with BIS/IEC standards
- Anti-islanding protection and grid synchronization features
How can solar + battery systems participate in peak load management?
Hybrid systems allow:
- Load shifting using battery discharge during peak hours
- Grid export during low-tariff times
- Demand charge reduction in commercial setups
- Advanced EMS (Energy Management Systems) optimize these operations.
What are the implications of IEEE 1547 and IEC 61727 for grid-tied systems?
These standards define grid-interconnection rules for:
- Frequency and voltage ride-through
- Anti-islanding protection
- Reactive power control and power factor
- Harmonics and THD limits
- Compliance ensures grid stability and DISCOM approvals.
How to forecast generation for commercial/industrial systems?
Use:
- Solar radiation data (NASA/NIWE)
- Simulation tools (PV*Sol, PVSyst)
- Historical weather patterns
- On-site shading analysis
- Forecasts must account for seasonal variations, soiling, degradation, and equipment tolerances.
What are the key financial modeling factors for ROI analysis in solar projects?
ROI analysis needs to cover both CapEx, which includes equipment and installation costs, and OpEx, which covers maintenance expenses. It should also include the depreciation benefits as per Section 32, interest on loans, and the payback period. You should also consider savings from net metering, potential increases in grid tariffs, and financial metrics like DCF, IRR, and NPV to fully understand the financial aspects.
How do bifacial panels improve yield and what are the design considerations?
Bifacial panels capture reflected light (albedo) from ground surfaces, increasing yield by 5–20%. Design considerations:
- Elevated mounting for better rear-side exposure
- Reflective surface (white gravel/concrete)
- Avoid shading on rear surface
- Use with string inverters with low mismatch loss tolerance
What grid interconnection challenges exist for large-scale rooftop projects?
- Transformer capacity limitations
- Reverse power flow restrictions
- Utility approvals and net metering delays
- Stringent islanding detection protocols
- Compliance with DISCOM-specific technical guidelines
Can AI/ML be used in solar system optimization?
Yes. AI/ML is being used for:
- Fault prediction and performance alerts
- Dynamic cleaning scheduling
- Forecasting generation and consumption
- Optimizing battery dispatch and grid export
- Smart EMS and IoT integration enable real-time adaptive control.
Can I buy a solar system on EMI?
Yes, many vendors and banks offer EMI (Equated Monthly Installment) options ranging from 12 to 60 months. This helps you go solar without paying the full amount upfront.
Are loans available for installing solar panels?
Yes.
You can get solar loans from:
- Nationalized banks and private banks
- Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs)
- Government programs like IREDA
These loans usually come with low interest rates and are easy to get approved for homes and small businesses.
What is the interest rate on solar loans?
Interest rates generally range from 4% to 10% per annum, depending on:
- Loan provider
- Credit score
- Repayment tenure
- Subsidized loans via government schemes may offer even lower rates.
Is subsidy available for solar installations?
Yes. Under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, you can get up to:
- 40% subsidy on systems up to 3 kW
- 20% subsidy on 3–10 kW
- You must apply through pmsuryaghar.gov.in
How is the subsidy amount given to you?
After your system is installed and checked by the local DISCOM, the subsidy amount is directly added to your bank account that is linked with your PM Surya Ghar portal registration.
What documents are required for a solar loan?
Typically:
- ID & address proof (Aadhar, PAN, etc.)
- Electricity bill
- Property ownership proof
- Bank statements or income proof (optional for some EMI providers)
Is it better to take a loan or pay upfront?
It depends:
- Loan/EMI: Ideal if you want to start saving without a heavy upfront investment
- Upfront: Better long-term savings, no interest paid
- Some users combine both — pay partly upfront, rest on EMI.
Are there any tax benefits on solar financing?
Yes, businesses and industries can claim accelerated depreciation (up to 40%) under Section 32 of the Income Tax Act. This reduces their taxable income significantly.
How long does it take to get back the money you spend on a solar system?
It takes about 5 to 6 years to get back the money you invested. Possible – The amount of money you pay for your solar system depends on how much energy you use, how big the system is, and if you have a loan or a subsidy. You can save a lot of money on your electricity bills for a long time after you pay off your solar panels.
Can I prepay or close my EMI early?
You can pay off your solar loan early or sell your house without paying more fees. Before you agree to anything, make sure you understand the rules.
Do solar panels need a lot of maintenance?
Not really! Solar panels are easy to take care of. Just keep them clean because dust, leaves, or bird droppings can cover them and make them less efficient.
How often should I clean my solar panels?
You should clean your panels at least once or twice a month using plain water. If you live in a dusty or high-pollution area, more frequent cleaning may be needed.
Can I clean the panels myself or do I need a professional?
Yes, you can clean them yourself using a soft cloth, sponge, or hose pipe with plain water. However, for large systems or hard-to-reach panels, it’s advisable to hire professionals.
Do solar panels lose efficiency if they get dirty?
Yes. Dust, grime, and bird droppings can reduce panel efficiency by 10–30% or more if not cleaned regularly.
What is an AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract)?
An AMC is a professional service agreement that covers:
- Routine cleaning
- Inverter/battery checks
- Wiring inspection
- Performance reporting
- This is especially helpful for larger systems or commercial setups.
Is rainwater enough to clean solar panels?
A: Rain can wash away some dust, but it doesn’t clean them completely.
It might leave behind dirt lines or spots from minerals, especially if the water is hard or there is pollution in the air. For best performance, your panels still need a proper cleaning every few months.
How do I know if my system needs servicing?
Watch for:
- Sudden drop in power generation
- Inverter warning lights
- App showing performance issues
- These are signs that cleaning or technical inspection is needed.
How long does a solar panel last with proper maintenance?
With regular care, most high-quality solar panels last 25 years or more with minimal degradation (about 0.5%–0.7% per year).
Do I need to maintain the inverter or battery too?
Yes:
- Inverters may need a software update, dusting, or cooling fan checks every 6–12 months.
- Batteries (in off-grid/hybrid systems) need water level checks (in lead-acid) or charge-discharge monitoring in lithium batteries.
Who do I contact if my system isn’t working properly?
Contact your solar vendor or installer immediately. If you have an AMC, they will provide priority service. Most systems also come with 5–10 years warranty for inverters and service support.
Any question?
If your question hasn’t been answered yet, feel free to contact us below and we’ll get back to you as soon as as possible.
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