Solar Panel Installation Guide

Solar Panel Installation Guide: 7 Steps to Install Solar Panels at Home in India

With the growing demand for clean, renewable energy in India, more homeowners are turning to solar power to reduce electricity bills and contribute to a sustainable future. Solar energy is not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective in the long run. However, for many, the process of installing solar panels at home may seem complex or overwhelming. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the 7 essential steps to install solar panels at home in India, covering everything from assessing your roof to system maintenance.

Step 1: Evaluate Your Home’s Solar Potential

Before investing in a solar power system, it’s important to determine whether your home is suitable for solar panel installation.

Key Factors to Consider

Roof Space and Orientation: Ideally, your roof should face south to get maximum sunlight throughout the day. East or west-facing roofs can still be used, but with reduced efficiency.
Shading Issues: Check if nearby trees, buildings, or water tanks cast shadows on your roof during peak sunlight hours (10 AM to 4 PM). Shading can drastically reduce energy output.
Roof Condition: Ensure your roof is in good condition and can support the weight of solar panels. It’s wise to repair or reinforce older roofs before installation

Tip

You can use solar calculators available on government or solar company websites to estimate your solar potential and possible savings.

Step 2: Understand Your Energy Needs

The size of the solar system you need depends on your household’s electricity consumption.

How to Calculate

Review past electricity bills (preferably for the last 6–12 months) to calculate your
average monthly usage in kWh.
A typical Indian household uses between 250 to 500 units/month.

Usage per Month (units)	Recommended System Size
100–200	1 kW
300–500	3–5 kW
500+	5–10 kW

Once you know how much power you need, you can decide between:
● On-Grid System: Connected to the electricity grid, eligible for net metering.
● Off-Grid System: Uses batteries to store power; suitable for remote locations.
● Hybrid System: Combination of on-grid and battery backup

Step 3: Choose the Right Type of Solar Panels

There are three main types of solar panels commonly used in India today:

1. Monocrystalline Panels (Mono PERC & TOPCon):

Highest efficiency (20–23% and above)
Perform well in low-light and high-temperature conditions
Long lifespan and good reliability
Slightly more expensive, but prices are decreasing
Compact in size—ideal if you have limited roof space

Note: Most new monocrystalline panels now use PERC (Passivated Emitter Rear Cell) or TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) technology for even higher efficiency and durability

2. Polycrystalline Panels

Moderate efficiency (16–18%)
More affordable than monocrystalline, but the price gap is shrinking
Require more roof space due to lower efficiency
Less common than before, but still available for budget installations

3. Thin-Film Panels (e.g., Cadmium Telluride, CIGS, Amorphous Silicon):

Lower efficiency (10–14%) but improved in the newest models
Flexible and lightweight—suitable for non-traditional or sensitive roof types
Perform better in partial shading and high temperatures
Shorter lifespan and generally less common on residential rooftops

Current Trends in India:
Monocrystalline panels (especially with PERC or TOPCon cells) are now most popular for
residential installations due to their high efficiency, improved durability, and competitive pricing.
Polycrystalline panels are mainly chosen for projects with large roof areas and lower budgets.
Thin-film panels are rarely used for standard homes but may suit special applications.

Step 4: Select a Certified Solar Installer

Choosing a qualified installer is crucial for a successful solar installation.

What to Look for:
● MNRE (Ministry of New and Renewable Energy) or DISCOM-approved installers
● Experience in residential installations
● Transparent pricing and service agreement
● After-sales service and maintenance

Important:
Look for companies that offer turnkey solar solutions — covering design, installation, net
metering, and government subsidy applications.
For example, trusted EPC contractors like Sree Nandhees Technologies offer end-to-end solar
system installation services tailored for Indian homes

Step 5: Apply for Net Metering and Subsidy (if eligible)

The Indian government promotes solar energy through policies and subsidies to make it more affordable for homeowners.

1. Net Metering:
This allows you to export excess electricity generated by your solar panels back to the grid.
You’ll receive credit on your bill for this, significantly reducing your electricity costs.

Steps to apply:
● Contact your local electricity distribution company (DISCOM).
● Fill out a net metering application form.
● Pay the necessary processing fees.
● DISCOM will inspect and approve the system before issuing a bi-directional meter.
2. Subsidy under PM-Surya Ghar Scheme:
As of 2025, homeowners can get up to ₹78,000 in subsidies under the revamped national solar
rooftop program. Subsidy is only applicable for on-grid systems installed by empanelled
vendors.

System Size	Subsidy Amount (₹)
1 kW	30,000
2 kW	60,000
3 kW	78,000

You can apply online through https://pmsuryaghar.gov.in.

Step 6: Installation Process

Once your site is ready and approvals are in place, installation typically takes 1–3 days,
depending on the system size.
Key Steps:
1. Structure Mounting: Install a mounting structure on the roof. Make sure it’s angled
correctly to maximize sun exposure.
2. Panel Fixing: Solar panels are placed and secured on the mounting structure.
3. Electrical Wiring: Connect the panels using DC cables and connect to the inverter.
4. Inverter Installation: Converts DC to usable AC power. Hybrid or off-grid systems will
also include batteries.
5. Net Meter Setup: DISCOM installs a bi-directional net meter.
6. Testing and Commissioning: The system is tested, commissioned, and handed over.
Safety Checks:
● Make sure the system is properly earthed.
● Surge protection devices (SPDs) should be installed.
● All cables must be weatherproof.

Step 7: Monitor and Maintain Your Solar System

Post-installation, monitoring and basic maintenance are key to ensuring efficiency and longevity.
Maintenance Checklist:
● Cleaning: Dust and bird droppings can reduce panel efficiency by 10–15%. Clean
panels every 2–4 weeks.
● Inspection: Check for loose wires, panel damage, or corrosion every 6 months.
● Performance Monitoring: Use mobile apps or monitoring systems (provided by
installer) to track performance.
● Inverter Maintenance: Keep the inverter in a ventilated, dry area. Inverters typically last
5–10 years.
Some solar companies offer AMC (Annual Maintenance Contracts) for hassle-free upkeep

FAQs About Solar Panel Installation in India

Q1: How much does it cost to install solar panels in India?
As of 2025, prices range between ₹50,000 to ₹70,000 per kW (before subsidy). So, a 3 kW system may cost ₹1.5–2.1 lakhs before subsidy.
Q2: How long will it take to break even?
With subsidies and net metering, most homeowners recover costs in 4 to 6 years.
Q3: What is the lifespan of solar panels?
Good quality panels last 25–30 years, with minimal efficiency loss over time.

Conclusion

Installing solar panels at your home in India is a smart investment — financially, environmentally, and for your energy independence. By following the 7 steps outlined above, you can ensure a smooth transition to solar energy and start saving on your electricity bills from day one.
Whether you’re looking for a simple 1 kW on-grid setup or a 10 kW hybrid solution, working with
an experienced provider like Sree Nandhees Technologies Pvt Ltd can make the entire
process hassle-free.