Buying
How to choose a solar installer — and avoid fraud
In shortBefore you pay, check that the installer is ALMM-compliant, GST-registered, and empanelled with PM Surya Ghar, has strong reviews (4.6+ on the portal, 4.7+ on Google), gives a written quote with no hidden add-ons, and offers a clear warranty. Never pay a large deposit to an unverified company.
The panels last 25 years — the installer is the part that goes wrong. India’s biggest barrier to rooftop solar isn’t the technology; surveys show it is a lack of trusted installers. Here is how to pick a good one.
The five checks that matter
- Verification — ALMM-listed panels, GST registration, and PM Surya Ghar empanelment. Ask for the numbers and check them.
- Reviews — look for 4.6+ on the PM Surya Ghar portal and 4.7+ on Google, with real, recent reviews.
- A clear written quote — every cost listed (panels, inverter, mounting, cabling, paperwork). Hidden add-ons after a “clean” quote are the most common complaint.
- Warranty & service — product and performance warranty in writing, plus who handles service and cleaning afterwards.
- No pressure, no big deposits — walk away from anyone demanding a large upfront payment before paperwork.
Red flags
- A deal that is far cheaper than everyone else (often substituted panels).
- No GST invoice.
- Vague answers on net metering and subsidy timelines.
- A “brand” website that copies a well-known name — brand-impersonation fraud is real; verify the company directly.
Make it easy
Every installer we show you is vetted against these checks first — so you can compare on price and service, not worry about trust.
Sources
- CEEW national rooftop-solar consumer survey, 2026
- Tata Power Solar fraud advisory