Kerala is rapidly embracing renewable energy, and one of the strongest drivers of this transition is the availability of solar subsidies that make rooftop solar installations more affordable for households. With rising electricity costs and growing awareness about clean energy, these government-backed subsidy programs are helping thousands of Kerala residents switch to solar power.
Understanding Solar Subsidies in Kerala
Solar subsidy in Kerala are primarily offered under the Prime Minister’s Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PM Surya Ghar), a central government initiative designed to boost residential rooftop solar adoption. The scheme provides direct financial assistance to homeowners, reducing the upfront cost of solar panel systems.
Under the PM Surya Ghar scheme:
1 kW rooftop solar system: ₹30,000 subsidy
- 2 kW system: ₹60,000 subsidy
- 3 kW and above: Up to ₹78,000 subsidy (fixed cap)
These amounts are directly credited into the beneficiary’s bank account once the system is installed and verified.
Kerala also supports solar adoption through state-level programs such as the Soura scheme implemented by the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) and ANERT (Agency for New and Renewable Energy Research and Technology). Under this tender-based state program, eligible domestic consumers can receive 40 % subsidy for systems up to 3 kW and 20 % for 3–10 kW systems when installed through approved channels.
Who Can Apply for Subsidy?
To qualify for solar subsidies in Kerala, residential consumers must:
- Own the property where the solar panels will be installed.
Have a valid on-grid electricity connection.
Install the system through an MNRE-approved and empanelled vendor.
Ensure the rooftop has adequate space and minimal shading for effective solar generation.
Once these conditions are met, homeowners can apply through the National Rooftop Solar Portal — the official government platform for subsidy applications. After system installation and inspection by the local DISCOM (in Kerala, KSEB), the subsidy amount is transferred straight to the applicant’s bank account via direct benefit transfer (DBT).
Benefits of Solar Subsidies in Kerala
1. Reduced System Cost:
Subsidies significantly lower the effective cost of buying and installing a solar system, making renewable energy accessible to more households.
2. Lower Electricity Bills:
A rooftop solar system can offset a large portion of monthly electricity consumption, helping homeowners save on utility bills over the long term.
3. Faster Adoption of Clean Energy:
With financial incentives and streamlined application processes, Kerala households are increasingly adopting solar solutions, contributing to the state’s sustainability goals.
Applying for Solar Subsidy in Kerala
The process to avail solar subsidy typically involves:
Registration on the National Rooftop Solar Portal: Enter details including state (Kerala) and local DISCOM.
Select an Empanelled Vendor: Karnataka DISCOMs provide a list of approved installers.
Feasibility Approval: Officials review rooftop photos and technical feasibility.
Installation & Inspection: After installation, KSEB conducts an inspection.
Subsidy Credit: Once validated, the subsidy amount is transferred to the applicant’s bank account.
Conclusion
Solar subsidies available in Kerala — especially through the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana and state schemes like Soura — are significant incentives that reduce the cost of adopting rooftop solar systems. These subsidies, combined with net-metering benefits and long-term savings on electricity bills, make solar power a compelling investment for Kerala homeowners seeking sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions.
