India’s renewable energy journey is accelerating at a remarkable pace, with solar power leading the charge. The nation is not just a consumer of solar technology, but a rapidly expanding global manufacturing hub. Driven by increasing demand and strategic government initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, domestic solar panel manufacturers are scaling up their capacity to unprecedented levels, positioning India for energy self-reliance (Atmanirbharta). If youโre tracking the immense growth of Indiaโs solar sector or looking for the biggest players driving this transformation, here is an overview of the industry’s recent milestones and the companies leading the way. India’s Solar Manufacturing and Deployment Surge The scale of expansion in Indiaโs solar sector over the past year has been historic: * Module Capacity Doubled: India’s solar module manufacturing capacity nearly doubled from an estimated 38 GW in March 2024 to a staggering 74 GW in March 2025. * Cell Capacity Tripled: The manufacturing capacity for solar PV cells saw an even more significant jump, tripling from 9 GW to 25 GW in the same period. * Installed Capacity: As of September 30, 2025, India’s cumulative installed solar power capacity reached over 127.33 GW. * PLI Scheme Impact: Investments under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for High-Efficiency Solar PV Modules have already resulted in investments worth approximately โน41,000 crore (around $4.95 billion), directly generating an estimated 11,650 jobs. The Top Players Driving Indiaโs Solar Ambition A core group of manufacturers is responsible for this exponential growth, focusing on high-efficiency technologies like Mono PERC and the advanced TOPCon modules. Waaree Energies Still holding its position as one of the largest solar manufacturers in the country, Waaree Energies boasts a massive operational capacity. As of mid-2024, the company’s annual module capacity stood at around 12 GW with a corresponding cell capacity of about 5.4 GW, reinforcing its leadership in both domestic and international markets. Avaada Group Avaada continues its aggressive expansion with a strong focus on fully integrated manufacturing. The company is strategically moving towards a total production capacity of 12.5 GW for modules and 12 GW for cells by 2026. This vertical integration is key to its role in the global clean energy transition. Adani Solar A vertically integrated heavyweight, Adani Solar has a significant manufacturing capacity of 4 GW for cells and modules, and is also expanding upstream with 2 GW capacity for ingots and wafers. Its focus is on providing high-quality, efficient modules for utility-scale and rooftop solar projects. Vikram Solar Known for its long-standing commitment to quality and innovation, Vikram Solar is a Tier-1, PVEL Top Performer. Its module manufacturing capacity has reached approximately 4.5 GW, including recent expansions, and it provides EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) and O&M services across six continents. Tata Power Solar Systems As a subsidiary of Tata Power, this firm remains one of India’s most trusted and oldest players. It has consistently delivered high-quality solar modules and EPC solutions, supplying an impressive 1.4 GW of solar modules globally over the last two decades. Premier Energies With over 25 years of experience, Premier Energies is a major force in both manufacturing and project execution. As of March 2024, it held a substantial annual production capacity of 2 GW for solar cells and 3.36 GW for solar modules, cementing its place as a top-tier provider. Goldi Solar A rapidly expanding manufacturer, Goldi Solar is increasing its global footprint. The company has a significant manufacturing presence and is known for serving international clients across over 20 countries, focusing on quality and innovative, high-efficiency solar panels. Conclusion: India’s Role in the Global Solar Ecosystem The incredible boost in domestic manufacturing capacity, driven by both market demand and supportive policies, shows that India is determined to become a self-reliant powerhouse in solar PV. These companies are not just competing; they are collectively accelerating India’s timeline to achieve its ambitious clean energy targets, which include reaching 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030. Whether you’re looking for solutions for a new rooftop installation or a utility-scale solar farm, these manufacturers are at the cutting edge of providing reliable, high-performance solar technology. Investing in solar in India is now more than just a green choiceโitโs a commitment to supporting a robust, self-sufficient, and rapidly growing domestic industry. What specific solar PV technologyโlike Mono PERC or TOPConโinterests you the most for future projects? Let us know in the comments below!
New Dawn: The Impact of GST Rationalization and Price Reductions on India’s Solar Industry The Indian solar industry is poised for an accelerated growth phase, largely driven by the recent rationalization of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates on renewable energy devices and the continuous global trend of falling prices for key components like solar modules and inverters. This convergence of policy support and market economics is significantly lowering project costs and making solar power more accessible than ever before. GST Rate Cut: A Game-Changer for Affordability In a landmark decision, the Indian government has rationalized the GST rate on renewable energy devices, including solar cells, modules, and inverters, from 12% to a unified 5%. This significant reduction has a profound positive impact across the solar value chain. Key Effects of the New GST Rates (5%)
Lowering Project Costs (CAPEX): The direct reduction in the tax rate translates immediately into a lower capital expenditure (CAPEX) for solar projects, both utility-scale and rooftop.
Utility-Scale Savings: Large solar parks stand to see significant cost reductions, which directly improves their financial viability and leads to lower power tariffs for consumers and distribution companies (DISCOMs). This aids in reducing the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) from renewable sources.
Rooftop Solar Boost: For households and small businesses, a typical residential rooftop system is now significantly cheaper, potentially saving thousands of rupees on the total installation cost. This greater affordability is a major catalyst for the mass adoption of solar energy under schemes like the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana .
Reduced Burden on Consumers: Farmers installing solar pumps under schemes like PM-KUSUM also benefit from substantial savings, making irrigation more affordable and sustainable.
Ease of Business and Compliance: The move to a uniform 5% GST on key components simplifies the tax structure for Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) companies, who previously dealt with complex “composite supply” rules that often resulted in a higher effective tax rate.
Supporting ‘Make in India’: Lower GST on domestically manufactured components enhances their cost competitiveness against imports, bolstering the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) and Make in India initiatives within the renewable sector. Impact of Reduced Module and Inverter Prices Beyond the regulatory relief of the GST cut, the global solar industry continues to witness a steep decline in the prices of core hardware: solar modules (panels) and inverters. Driving Forces Behind Price Reduction
Global Oversupply and Technology Advancements: Massive scale manufacturing, particularly in Asian markets, has led to a global supply glut. Simultaneously, continuous research and development are yielding more efficient module technologies (like PERC, TOPCon, and Heterojunction) at lower costs.
Economies of Scale: As the entire supply chainโfrom polysilicon to finished modulesโgrows, the cost per unit of production falls, pushing down the final price of the equipment.
Inverter Efficiency: Advancements in power electronics have made invertersโwhich convert DC power from the panels into usable AC powerโsmaller, more efficient, and cheaper to produce. Effect on the Indian Solar Ecosystem
Tariff Competitiveness: The consistently falling price of solar modules, which account for a major portion of a solar project’s total cost, is the single biggest factor driving down solar tariffs in India. Lower tariffs make solar power highly competitive, often beating out coal-fired power, and solidify its position as the preferred source of new power generation.
Improved Return on Investment (ROI): For homeowners and commercial entities, the combined effect of lower component prices and reduced GST significantly cuts the initial investment, drastically shortening the payback period and improving the overall financial return of installing a solar system.
Accelerated Deployment: Reduced costs and improved financial returns boost investor confidence, leading to faster signing of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and quicker project commissioning, ultimately accelerating India’s pace toward its ambitious renewable energy targets. Conclusion The dual benefit of a rationalized 5% GST on solar equipment and the global deflation in module and inverter prices creates a powerful multiplier effect for India’s solar sector. This environment of lower upfront costs and cheaper energy generation is a critical step in accelerating the nation’s clean energy transition, delivering tangible financial savings to developers, industries, farmers, and every household in the country.
With rising electricity costs and growing awareness about sustainability, solar energy is becoming an increasingly popular choice for Indian households and businesses. But when you decide to go solar, one key decision remains: Should you choose an on-grid, off-grid, or hybrid solar system?
Each system type has its own benefits and limitations, especially when considering Indiaโs diverse geography, power supply issues, and government policies. Hereโs a comprehensive guide to help you understand the difference and decide whatโs best for you.
๐ What is an On-Grid Solar System?
Also known as grid-tied, this solar setup is connected directly to your local electricity grid. The solar panels generate electricity during the day, and any excess is fed back to the grid. In return, you get credits via net meteringโa policy increasingly adopted by state electricity boards in India.
โ Benifits :
Cost-effective: No need for expensive batteries.
Lower electricity bills: Surplus power earns you credits.
Eligible for subsidies: MNRE (Ministry of New and Renewable Energy) offers financial assistance for residential users.
Best For:
Urban homes, commercial buildings, or institutions in areas with reliable grid supply.
๐ What is an Off-Grid Solar System?
This system operates independently of the grid, storing excess power in batteries for later use. It’s ideal for remote areas where the electricity supply is poor or non-existent.
โ Benifits :
Complete energy independence: Ideal for remote areas or frequent outages.
Reliable backup power: Works even during grid failures.
Best For:
Villages, farms, or regions with poor or no grid connectivity like parts of Himachal Pradesh, Northeast India, or Rajasthan.
โก What is a Hybrid Solar System?
A hybrid system combines the benefits of both on-grid and off-grid. It is connected to the grid and also has a battery backup, ensuring uninterrupted power during blackouts.
โ Benifits :
Best of both worlds: Grid connectivity + backup.
Smart energy management: Advanced systems can optimize usage between solar, battery, and grid.
Reduced dependency: Less load on batteries since the grid can supplement.
Best For:
Hospitals, data centers, or homes/businesses in semi-urban areas where power cuts are common.
๐ Government Support & Subsidies in India
As part of Indiaโs push toward “Green Energy”, the government offers:
Rs 78,000 for residential rooftop solar under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana on On-Grid and Hybrid.
Net metering policies across most states (varies by state).
Loans and tax benefits for solar installations.
Always check with your State Nodal Agency (SNA) or DISCOM for the latest local policies.
๐งญ Which One Should You Choose?
Parameter
On-Grid
Off-Grid
Hybrid
Initial Cost
Low
High
Highest
Power Backup
No
Yes
Yes
Battery Requirement
No
Yes
Yes (optimized)
Grid Dependency
Full
None
Partial
Best For
Cities, industries
Remote/rural areas
Semi-urban, critical loads
Final Thoughts
Indiaโs solar revolution is well underway, and choosing the right solar system depends on your location, budget, and power needs. Whether youโre in a power-cut-prone village in Bihar or a metro apartment in Bengaluru, thereโs a solar solution that fits your lifestyle.
Thinking of making the switch? Start by analyzing your electricity usage and checking your local DISCOMโs solar policy. A well-informed decision today can lead to years of energy savings and a cleaner planet tomorrow.
India is rapidly adopting renewable energy, particularly solar power, to meet its growing electricity demand while reducing carbon emissions. The Government of India set an ambitious renewable energy capacity target 500 giga watt (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
The adoption of rooftop solar has been driven by high retail electricity tariffs for commercial and industrial (C&I) consumers, favorable net metering policies, corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, and growing consumer awareness.
Two primary billing systemsโnet metering and gross meteringโdetermine how solar energy producers are credited for the electricity they feed into the grid. Understanding these systems is crucial for consumers, businesses, and policymakers.
What is Net Metering?
Net metering is a billing arrangement where consumers with rooftop solar panels can offset their electricity consumption by exporting excess solar power to the grid.
How Net Metering Works:
Bi-directional Metering: A single meter records both electricity consumed from the grid and excess solar power fed back into it.
Energy Offset: At the end of the billing cycle, the consumer is billed only for the net energy consumed (grid electricity used minus solar energy exported).
Credit System: If solar generation exceeds consumption, the surplus is either:
Carried forward as a credit for future bills (in most states).
Compensated at a lower rate (e.g., Average Power Purchase Cost (APPC), typically around โน4/kWh).
Example of Net Metering Billing:
Month
Grid Consumption (kWh)
Solar Export (kWh)
Net Billed (kWh)
Payment (โน9/kWh)
Dec
800
800
0
โน0
Jan
1000
1200
-200 (Credit)
DISCOM pays โน800 (200 ร โน4)
Feb
1300
900
400
Consumer pays โน3600 (400 ร โน9)
Advantages of Net Metering:
โ Lower Electricity Bills โ Directly offsets consumption, reducing dependence on costly grid power. โ Better ROI on Solar Investments โ Faster payback due to higher savings. โ Simple & Widely Adopted โ Preferred by residential and commercial users.
Disadvantages of Net Metering:
โ Limited Compensation for Excess Solar โ Some states pay very low or no feed-in tariffs for surplus power. โ State-Specific Policies โ Rules vary, leading to inconsistency across regions.
What is Gross Metering?
Gross metering is a system where all solar power generated is fed into the grid, and the consumer purchases all electricity from the grid separately.
How Gross Metering Works:
Two Separate Meters:
One records total solar energy exported (compensated at Feed-in Tariff (FiT)).
Another records total electricity imported (billed at retail tariff).
No Direct Self-Consumption: Unlike net metering, solar power does not offset personal usage.
Example of Gross Metering Billing:
Month
Grid Consumption (kWh)
Solar Export (kWh)
Payment for Export (โน4/kWh)
Payment for Import (โน9/kWh)
Net Payment
Dec
800
800
โน3200 (800 ร โน4)
โน7200 (800 ร โน9)
โน4000
Jan
1000
1200
โน4800 (1200 ร โน4)
โน9000 (1000 ร โน9)
โน4200
Feb
1300
900
โน3600 (900 ร โน4)
โน11700 (1300 ร โน9)
โน8100
Advantages of Gross Metering:
โ Guaranteed Revenue โ Fixed FiT for all solar power exported. โ Suitable for Large Producers โ Ideal for those generating more than they consume.
Disadvantages of Gross Metering:
โ Higher Electricity Bills โ Consumers pay full retail rates for grid power. โ Slower ROI โ FiT rates are usually lower than retail tariffs.
Key Differences Between Net Metering and Gross Metering
Feature
Net Metering
Gross Metering
Meter Type
Single bi-directional meter
Two separate meters (export & import)
Billing Mechanism
Net energy (import – export)
Separate billing for import & export
Compensation for Solar
Credit offset or low APPC (โน3-4/kWh)
Fixed FiT (โน3-5/kWh)
Best For
Homes, SMEs (self-consumption)
Large solar farms (export-focused)
Savings Potential
High (direct offset)
Low (depends on FiT vs. retail rate)
Adoption in India
36 states and union territories
22 states and union territories (alongside net metering)
Which One is Better for You?
Choose Net Metering If:
โ You want maximum savings on electricity bills. โ Your solar generation matches your consumption. โ Your state offers favorable net metering policies (e.g., Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Kerala).
Choose Gross Metering If:
โ You generate far more solar power than you consume. โ Your state offers a high Feed-in Tariff (FiT). โ You are a large-scale producer (e.g., industrial plants).
Conclusion
Net metering is more financially beneficial for most consumers, as it directly reduces electricity bills by offsetting grid usage.
Gross metering is better suited for large solar producers who prioritize selling power to the grid rather than self-consumption.
Despite Indiaโs slow progress in rooftop solar adoption (only 14% of solar capacity), net metering remains the preferred choice for residential and commercial users. However, state policies play a crucial roleโconsumers must check local regulations before investing in solar.
Would you like a state-wise breakdown of net metering policies? Let me know in the comments!
Keywords: Net metering vs gross metering India, rooftop solar policy, feed-in tariff, APPC, solar billing mechanisms, best metering for solar in India.
With Punjabโs abundant sunlight and government incentives for solar power, rooftop solar systems are becoming a popular choice for homes, businesses and Industry. However, to ensure long-term efficiency and savings, proper maintenance is crucial.
In this guide, weโll cover: โ Essential solar panel maintenance tips โ Common issues & troubleshooting โ Punjab-specific challenges (dust, heat, monsoons) โ Professional and Self maintenance โ Government schemes & subsidies โ Insurance & safety checks for long-term protection
Why Solar Maintenance Matters?
Punjabโs climateโhot summers, dust storms, and monsoon rainsโcan impact solar panel performance. Regular maintenance ensures: โ Maximum energy output (dust reduces efficiency by 15-25%) โ Longer system lifespan (well-maintained panels last 25+ years) โ Safety & compliance (prevents electrical hazards) โ Protection against storm damage (common in Punjabโs windy seasons)
Routine Solar Panel Maintenance Checklist
1. Cleaning Solar Panels
Frequency: Every 2-3 months .
Best Method: Use soft brush + water (avoid abrasive materials).
Clean early morning or late evening (prevents thermal shock).
Remove bird droppings, leaves, and dust (common in Punjabโs farms).
โ Avoid: High-pressure jets (can damage panels).
2. Checking for Shading & Obstructions
Trim nearby trees or branches (common in rural Punjab).
Ensure no new construction casts shadows on panels.
3. Inspecting Wiring & Connections
Look for loose wires, corrosion, or rodent damage (common in rural/semi-urban areas).
Hire an electrician once a year for a thorough check.
4. Monitoring Inverter Performance
Green light = Normal, Red/Flashing light = Fault.
Keep the inverter in a shaded, ventilated area (Punjabโs heat can reduce lifespan).
5. Checking Mounting Structure
After storms or heavy winds, inspect all nuts & bolts to prevent loosening.
Rust-proof metal frames to withstand humidity.
Tighten loose parts immediatelyโweak structures can collapse in Punjabโs frequent storms.
6. Earthing & Electrical Safety
Check earthing every 6 months (critical for monsoon safety).
Hire an expert electrician to ensure proper grounding (avoids short circuits).
Punjab-Specific Solar Maintenance Challenges
Issue
Solution
Dust & Pollution
Clean panels every 2 months.
Monsoon Rains
Check drainage, prevent waterlogging.
Summer Heat (45ยฐC+)
Ensure proper ventilation for inverters.
Birds & Pigeons
Install bird spikes or mesh.
Storms & High Winds
Regularly check nut-bolt tightness on mounting structure.
When to Call a Professional?
While basic cleaning can be DIY, call a solar technician if: ๐ง Sudden drop in power generation ๐ง Cracked or damaged panels ๐ง Inverter error messages ๐ง Wiring faults or frequent tripping
Get Solar Panel Insurance (Must for Punjab!)
Why? Covers damage from storms, fires, lighting and other natural calamities.
Where? Check with General Insurance Companies.
Solar Maintenance Costs in Punjab
Service
Approx. Cost (INR)
Basic Cleaning
โน500 – โน1,500
Full System Inspection
โน2,000 – โน5,000
Government Support for Solar Maintenance
Punjab promotes solar energy via: ๐น Subsidy (of Rs 78,000 from 3KW to 10KW) ๐น Net Metering (sell excess power to the grid) ๐น Empaneled Vendors (for reliable servicing)
โ Monitor daily generation (use apps like SolarEdge). โ Keep maintenance records (helps in warranty claims). โ Invest in insurance (protects against storms & accidents). โ Check nuts/bolts after every storm (saves structure from damage). โ Test earthing every 6 months (prevents electrical hazards).
Conclusion
Regular rooftop solar maintenance saves money and boosts efficiencyโespecially in Punjabโs tough climate. Follow this guide, and your system will run smoothly for decades!
Need help? Reach out to us at teqnicsps@gmail.comโ๏ธ
๐ข Share this with Punjabโs solar users! #PunjabSolar #GreenEnergy #SolarMaintenance
