Why Solar?
Solar energy is a clean, renewable, and abundant resource that offers numerous benefits for individuals, businesses, and the environment. By harnessing sunlight, solar power provides energy independence, reducing reliance on traditional utility companies and volatile energy markets. With no fuel costs and minimal maintenance, it is an affordable and sustainable solution to rising energy expenses. Solar energy not only protects against future utility price hikes but also aligns with peak demand periods, making it efficient and cost-effective. Beyond financial advantages, it contributes to a greener planet by producing no harmful emissions, supporting a sustainable and environmentally responsible future.
- 1. Energy Independence: Reduce reliance on external power suppliers and take control of your energy needs.
- 2. Free and Abundant Resource: Sunlight is free and accessible to all, eliminating the need for costly fuel.
- 3. Low Operational Costs: Solar systems require minimal maintenance and have no fuel expenses.
- 4. Price Stability: Protect yourself from future increases in utility power prices.
- 5. Peak Demand Alignment: Solar generates power during high-demand periods, maximizing efficiency and savings.
- 6. Unprecedented Affordability: Solar power costs are at their lowest, making it more accessible than ever.
What is Solar Rooftop?
A solar rooftop refers to the installation of solar panels on the roofs of buildings to harness sunlight and generate electricity using photovoltaic (PV) technology. This system enables households, businesses, and industries to produce clean, renewable energy directly on-site, reducing dependence on traditional power grids and lowering electricity bills. Solar rooftops are an eco-friendly solution, promoting environmental sustainability by reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, many systems allow excess electricity to be sent back to the grid through net metering, offering further economic benefits to users.
What Type of Solar System is Best Suited for My Home?
Within India, the prevalent solar energy systems are categorized as on-grid and off-grid systems, distinguished primarily by their utilization of battery storage. Your selection will hinge on factors such as your energy usage, roof dimensions, and the level of sunlight exposure in your locality.
Feature |
On-Grid System |
Off-Grid System |
Hybrid System |
Definition |
Connected to the power grid; excess energy is sent to the grid through net metering. |
Operates independently of the grid; stores energy in batteries for use when sunlight is unavailable. |
Combines the benefits of on-grid and off-grid systems with battery storage and grid connectivity. |
Battery Requirement |
Not required. |
Requires batteries for energy storage. |
Batteries are optional but commonly included for backup power. |
Cost |
Lower initial investment due to no battery costs. |
Higher cost due to battery inclusion. |
Highest cost due to both grid connection and batteries. |
Power Backup |
No backup; power outage affects the system. |
Provides backup power during outages. |
Provides backup power and can use grid as an additional source. |
Suitability |
Ideal for areas with stable and reliable grid power. |
Best for remote locations with no grid access or frequent power outages. |
Suitable for areas with occasional outages and for users wanting energy independence and flexibility. |
Excess Energy |
Sent back to the grid; reduces electricity bills through net metering. |
Not applicable; excess energy may go unused if batteries are full. |
Sent to the grid or stored in batteries for later use. |
Maintenance |
Low; primarily involves panel cleaning. |
High; batteries require regular maintenance and eventual replacement. |
Medium; includes panel cleaning and periodic battery checks. |
Environmental Impact |
Very low; relies on renewable energy. |
Low, but battery manufacturing and disposal have some environmental impact. |
Low, with some impact due to batteries. |
Why Should I Consider Switching to Solar?
Switching to solar energy is a smart choice that can help you save over 90% on your monthly electricity expenses. Consider this: if the electricity rate in your state is ₹10 per unit and your monthly electricity bill is ₹3,000 (amounting to ₹36,000 annually), your electricity costs could add up to approximately ₹13-14 lakh over the next 25 years. On the other hand, a 1 kW solar system, with an initial cost of around ₹80,000, can meet your household energy needs. The good news is that the government provides a subsidy of ₹14,800 for a 1 kW solar setup, further reducing your investment. Now, ask yourself: would you prefer to pay ₹13-14 lakh in electricity bills over 25 years, or make a one-time investment of ₹80,000 in solar energy and free yourself from ever-increasing electricity costs for decades to come?
The typical monthly solar energy production from a 1 kW system in India.