Prices
Solar Panel Price in India 2026: Cost Per Watt & kW
Buying rooftop solar this year? Here is the short version. For a full, installed on-grid system — panels, inverter, mounting, wiring, and labour — expect roughly ₹55,000 to ₹75,000 per kW before any subsidy (indicative 2026 — verify current). That is about ₹55–₹75 per watt. The exact figure moves with your brand, panel type, whether the cells are DCR, and even your city.
Then the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana subsidy brings it down. For a home rooftop, the central subsidy (CFA) is ₹30,000/kW for the first 2 kW plus ₹18,000 for the 3rd kW — capped at ₹78,000. So most families installing 3 kW or more get the full ₹78,000 off.
Solar panel price in India 2026: per watt and per kW
Think of the price in two layers. The per watt number (₹55–₹75) is handy for comparing quotes. The per kW number (₹55,000–₹75,000) is what you multiply by your system size. A single panel’s price on its own depends on its wattage and type, so per watt and per kW are the honest way to compare — not “price per panel.”
A quick reality check on what you get for that money: about 4 units of electricity a day per kW, or roughly 1,400–1,600 units a year per kW. So a 3 kW system makes around 12–15 units on a good day. For a family in Jaipur or Pune with a ₹2,500–₹3,500 monthly bill, that often covers most of the usage.
Price table by system size (1–10 kW)
The table below is simple arithmetic on the verified per-kW cost and the PM Surya Ghar subsidy. All figures are indicative 2026 — verify current with local installers.
| System size | Approx cost before subsidy | PM Surya Ghar subsidy | Approx cost after subsidy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 kW | ₹55,000 – ₹75,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹25,000 – ₹45,000 |
| 2 kW | ₹1,10,000 – ₹1,50,000 | ₹60,000 | ₹50,000 – ₹90,000 |
| 3 kW | ₹1,65,000 – ₹2,25,000 | ₹78,000 | ₹87,000 – ₹1,47,000 |
| 4 kW | ₹2,20,000 – ₹3,00,000 | ₹78,000 | ₹1,42,000 – ₹2,22,000 |
| 5 kW | ₹2,75,000 – ₹3,75,000 | ₹78,000 | ₹1,97,000 – ₹2,97,000 |
| 6 kW | ₹3,30,000 – ₹4,50,000 | ₹78,000 | ₹2,52,000 – ₹3,72,000 |
| 8 kW | ₹4,40,000 – ₹6,00,000 | ₹78,000 | ₹3,62,000 – ₹5,22,000 |
| 10 kW | ₹5,50,000 – ₹7,50,000 | ₹78,000 | ₹4,72,000 – ₹6,72,000 |
Notice the subsidy is capped at ₹78,000. Going from 3 kW to 10 kW does not add more central subsidy — the extra kilowatts are paid in full. That is why 3 kW is the sweet spot for many homes: you unlock the maximum subsidy and cover a typical family’s bill.
Price after PM Surya Ghar subsidy
The subsidy applies to residential rooftop only, and there are conditions. Panels must be ALMM-listed (Approved List of Models & Manufacturers), and the system must use DCR (Domestic Content Requirement) cells to qualify. Only on-grid systems get the subsidy and net metering — so most subsidised homes do not need a battery.
One important 2026 update: new PM Surya Ghar registrations closed on 6 June 2026. By mid-2026, over 40 lakh homes were solarised and more than 1 crore had registered. If you missed the window, don’t rush to “register now” — instead track your existing application status and watch for any next intake announced by the government.
For net metering, it is deemed feasible up to 10 kW for homes under the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020. You apply through your DISCOM after installation, and approval usually takes about 15–45 days.
What actually drives the price
Two homes on the same street can get different quotes. Here is why.
Brand and build quality
Well-known names like Tata Power Solar, Waaree, Vikram Solar, Adani, or Luminous often sit at the higher end. Smaller local brands can be cheaper. You are paying for panel quality, service network, and how well warranty claims are honoured — not just the sticker.
DCR vs non-DCR panels
- DCR panels use Indian-made cells and modules. They are required for the PM Surya Ghar subsidy and usually cost a bit more.
- Non-DCR panels can be cheaper but are not eligible for the residential subsidy.
For a subsidised home rooftop, DCR is the practical choice.
Mono PERC vs TOPCon (and bifacial)
- DCR Mono PERC is the usual pick for subsidised residential systems — proven and cost-effective.
- TOPCon is a newer technology, often priced higher.
- Bifacial panels capture light on both sides and suit certain roofs.
For most homes chasing the subsidy, DCR Mono PERC keeps things simple and eligible.
On-grid vs battery
On-grid systems export surplus to the grid and earn credits via net metering — no battery needed, lower cost. Add a battery only if you face frequent cuts. If you do, lithium (LFP) offers longer life than tubular lead-acid, at a higher upfront price.
What comes with the system
- Panels: ~25-year performance warranty + ~10–12-year product warranty.
- Inverter: typically 5–10 years.
- Batteries (if any): lithium lasts longer than tubular.
How fast does it pay back?
For a subsidised residential rooftop, payback is usually around 3–4 years. After that, the electricity is largely free for the panels’ 25-year life. That is the real appeal — a few lakh today, then two decades of low bills.
Before you commit, it helps to compare. Get 3 free quotes so you can see how per-watt pricing, DCR compliance, and warranties differ between installers. And run your numbers through a savings calculator to estimate your bill cut and payback for your roof and DISCOM — it takes the guesswork out.
Before you sign: a quick checklist
- Confirm panels are ALMM-listed and DCR if you want the subsidy.
- Ask whether it is on-grid (needed for net metering and subsidy).
- Check the per watt price, not just the total.
- Get warranty terms in writing for panels, inverter, and workmanship.
- Confirm who files your net metering application with the DISCOM.
Every price here is indicative 2026 — verify current, because rates change with the market, your city, and your chosen brand.
Frequently asked questions
What is the price of a 3 kW solar system in India in 2026?
A 3 kW on-grid rooftop system costs roughly ₹1.65–2.25 lakh before subsidy (indicative 2026 — verify current). After the full PM Surya Ghar subsidy of ₹78,000, your net cost is about ₹87,000–₹1.47 lakh.
How much subsidy do I get under PM Surya Ghar?
The central subsidy is ₹30,000/kW for the first 2 kW plus ₹18,000 for the 3rd kW, capped at ₹78,000. So 1 kW gets ₹30,000, 2 kW gets ₹60,000, and 3 kW or more gets the maximum ₹78,000. It applies to residential rooftop only.
Are DCR panels compulsory for the subsidy?
Yes. To qualify for PM Surya Ghar, panels must be ALMM-listed and use DCR (Domestic Content Requirement) cells. Non-DCR panels may be cheaper but are not eligible for the residential subsidy.
Can I still register for PM Surya Ghar in 2026?
New registrations closed on 6 June 2026. If you already applied, track your status. Otherwise, watch for any next intake announced by the government rather than trying to register now.
Mono PERC or TOPCon — which should I choose?
For most subsidised homes, DCR Mono PERC is the usual, cost-effective choice. TOPCon is newer and often priced higher. Bifacial suits specific roofs. Pick based on budget, roof, and subsidy eligibility.
Do I need a battery with my rooftop solar?
Usually no. Only on-grid systems get net metering and the subsidy, and most subsidised homes do not need a battery. Add one only if you face frequent power cuts — lithium (LFP) lasts longer than tubular lead-acid.