In Short : Some Indian states are implementing mandatory rooftop solar panel installations for homes with plots exceeding 1,000 square feet. For example, Lucknow plans to enforce this rule to promote renewable energy and reduce dependency on non-renewable sources. This aligns with broader initiatives like the PM-Surya Ghar program, which offers subsidies for residential rooftop solar installations. Homeowners can save on electricity bills and even earn by selling excess power back to the grid.
In Detail : The Lucknow Authority aims to make urban living more sustainable by encouraging the use of renewable energy. Homeowners planning new constructions on plots of 1,000 sq ft or more must include rooftop solar systems in their building plans. The increased use of solar panels will reduce the dependency on conventional power sources and support a cleaner environment.
Rooftop solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, which can be used for lighting, water pumping, and other household needs. Surplus energy can be returned to the grid under the net metering system, allowing users to earn credits for unused power. This provision makes solar panels both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
The application process for installing rooftop solar systems is simple. Homeowners or builders must register on the National Portal of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). They must provide their electricity connection number, address, and the proposed solar system’s capacity.
Once registered, the application is reviewed by the local power distribution company (DISCOM) for technical approval. After approval, the applicant can install the solar panel through a vendor empanelled with DISCOM. The system will be inspected, and a net meter will be installed to monitor energy usage and surplus.
To encourage the use of solar energy, the Central Government offers subsidies based on the system’s capacity. A subsidy of Rs14,588 per kW is provided for installations up to three kW. For systems between three and 10 kW, the first three kW receives the full subsidy, and the rest is subsidised at Rs 7,294 per kW. Larger systems above 10 kW receive a fixed subsidy of Rs 94,822.
The updated norms aim to make solar energy accessible to more homeowners and reduce energy costs while contributing to environmental conservation.
