How to install solar panels at home in india
Do you want to install solar panels in your home but don’t know how? If you are someone residing in India and plan to go solar to meet the electricity needs of your household, you have come exactly at the right place. In recent years, the solar energy market has witnessed an
upsurge in the number of solar panel vendors. The government policies,
cost-reduction of solar panels, and the growing demands have contributed to the annual growth of the solar market by 49%.
This one-time investment can help you save money and energy for the next 25 years of your life! Apart from this, by using green energy, the eco-enthusiasts can finally take a sigh of relief. A solar panel produces 10 times less carbon footprint than a non-renewable resource and 20 times less carbon emission than a coal-powered electricity source.
During the first two years of operation, they produce approx. 50g of CO2 /kWhr.
The solar panels become carbon neutral by the third year of operation.
Why This Article is Important for You
Looking at the incredible benefits offered by solar panels, one might want to install them sooner rather tan later. However, it is important to follow a checklist. Before solar panel installation, there are innumerable things to do.
From calculating the energy requirements of your home to choosing a suitable solar panel, getting the permits, buying the components, selecting a site, setting the scaffold, the installation of the solar panel, connecting the panel with the battery, and connecting it to your home.
Here’s a stepwise guide to help you complete this Herculean task which might not be so Herculean after all, once we break down them in managable steps which we shall do in this blog.
How much does cost to install solar panel?
Just like “every snowflake is different”, so is the energy needed for every home. A solar panel can be customized based on utility, location, and shading. In India, the price of solar panel systems may range from Rs.75-85/ watt.
A big sum of money can be saved if the solar energy required is well calculated. Following are the steps to conclude the amount of solar energy required or can be harnessed.
1) Check the electricity bill:
The higher the electricity bill, the more the savings. Typically, a solar panel is installed on a rooftop to receive the maximum amount of sunlight. The electricity bill needs to give an idea about the fluctuation in energy consumption with varying seasons and events.
2) Evaluate the cost of a solar panel:
A lump-sum investment in solar panels and components is still worth a span of 25 years. After 25 years, the output is minimally decreased if the panel is maintained well. A solar energy calculator is often used to calculate the amount of energy generated and savings made based on factors like location, rooftop area, and current electricity bill.
In India, a 5KW residential solar system has an average cost of Rs 63 to 71.4/watt and a total of Rs. 3,15,000 – 3,57,000 with installation, before considering any government subsidy.
3) Save money now, ask me how?
To support people to opt for green energy, Governments launch policies. One can apply for a subsidy and save chunks of money.
You can check details about the eligibility criteria and approved list of models and manufacturers of solar photovoltaic modules on the National Portal for Rooftop Solar launched by the Indian government.
The Government subsidy is available only for the residential sector grid-connected solar rooftop projects.
Capacity | Subsidy |
Upto 3kWp | 40% of benchmark cost/tendered rate (whichever is lower) |
3kWp to 10kWp | 20% of benchmark cost/tendered rate (whichever is lower) |
*For more information, refer to https://solarrooftop.gov.in/pdf/faq_new.pdf
Where do I install the Solar panel?
A suitable site receives a surplus amount of sunlight. The amount of sunlight received depends on factors like weather conditions, the average number of sun peak hours, the type of roof, shading, and latitudinal location.
Choosing a suitable site is as crucial as choosing the right type of panel. Ideally, a panel is installed on the rooftop or mounted on the ground. Otherwise, they could be installed on the sides of a wall, as a rooftop overhang, a carport, a gazebo, or a carport. A Solarium or a solar pergola can be lavishly constructed for harnessing solar energy. A rooftop overhang can save a home from solar heat by up to 77%.
Advancements
Currently, the advancements in putting in solar panels have been stretched making solar energy a lot more effective and cheaper. Advancements in solar panels, particularly PV cells and energy storage systems are improving the efficiency of the solar systems.
Government Policies
The power of solar development must be supported by positive policy measures at the federal and provincial levels. Solar energy is also cheaper because of incentives being offered like tax credits and rebates and feed-in-tariffs that make solar investments possible for businesses as well as for homeowners.
Environmental Awareness
Due to the awareness of people on the effects of climate change along with sustainability, clean energy is being sought after. Renewable energy, especially from the sun, is environmentally friendly as it barely generates greenhouse gas emissions and hence, fully supports the above environmental objectives.
Falling Costs
As technology penetrated the solar industry, it reduced the cost of installation across the board. This has kept the cost low, thus enhancing the readiness for greater consumption of solar power by a lot of buyers in the market.
Should I buy solar panels?
To buy a solar panel would prove to be much more profitable in the long term. Buying a solar panel increases the property value by 3-4%. However, a cash purchase may seem to be difficult in the current economic times. The other financing options could be a home equity line of credit or a solar loan.
Economic Benefits
The solar industry is playing its role in economic development by generating employment, investors’ interest, and developing a value-for-money approach to energy. Solar initiatives investment creates jobs for the people and stimulates innovation in the renewable energy platform.
Environmental Benefits
Environmental advantages that come with using solar power include cutting greenhouse gases and determination of fossil fuel. This form of energy is renewable and has a positive impact on reducing greenhouse gases, hence reflecting a positive stride towards a cleaner environment in Canada.
As the consultations on the future prospects of solar energy in Canada come to a close, it is time to provide an answer to this question.
Choosing the right one
Multiple factors help decide the right one for you. The amount of energy required, the budget, installation service providing vendors, are available to name a few.
Permits required
As the installation of solar panels involves certain electrical works and construction, it is mandatory to seek permits from local authorities. It is important to know if the municipality, county, or city has any jurisdiction over the property. The application to authorities should include a site plan, a schematic design of the system, a diagram of electrical writing, and certification of components used in the system.
How to install solar panels step by step
To begin the process of installation, have the essential tools like a Chaulk gun, measuring tools, a sturdy ladder, safety equipment, a power drill, a power saw, and a flat pry bar. Make sure you are equipped with the electrical wiring, conduits, fitting, AC/DC connects, junction boxes, and breakers.
To begin with the installation process, follow the How to Install Solar Panel step by step guide:
- Installation of rack:
Usually, a DIY solar panel kit comes with a racking system for the panel. Follow the DIY guide in the video:
- Installation of Inverters
If the solar system comes with microinverters, these inverters need to be attached to the back frame of the solar panel before mounting. The closer the location of the inverter to a solar panel, the better the efficiency.
- Installation of Solar Panels
- Firstly, use the two end clamps to install the first panel on the rails.
- Next, make use of grounding mid-clamps to install each consecutive panel. The mid-clamps bind the solar panels and rails together, to form a continuous system.
- On completing the installation of all panels, make use of two or more end clamps to secure the last panel on the rail.
How to connect solar panels to the house
To connect the solar panel to the house, follow the steps:
- Connect the Solar Inverter to the Solar Battery:
A solar battery saves solar energy generated by solar panels. Hence, one need not worry about the lack of solar energy during the cloudy days.
- Connect the Solar Inverter to the Consumer unit:
An inverter converts the Direct current generated by the Solar Panel to Alternating Current. This inverter is connected to a Switchboard. A switchboard enables the use of AC from the solar panel and allows the usage of electricity from the grid in the absence of solar energy. The switchboard is then connected to a Consumer Unit of the house for the distribution of the current for powering the electrical appliances. A utility meter, usually a bi-directional meter is connected to a Consumer unit. A bi-directional meter not only monitors the power drawn from the grid to the house but also the amount of solar energy exported back to the grid, called net-metering. On exporting the unused solar energy to the grid, you earn credits on the electricity bill.
What next?
After a successful installation of a Solar Panel, one needs to ensure the risk-free working of the system.
1) Solar Inspection:
Contact your local building department and book an appointment to schedule the inspection of the system.
2) Monitoring system:
A monitoring system is set up to keep a record of the energy produced. It is usually provided with a solar panel kit. The monitoring system is connected to the internet to send you notifications and alerts in case of a drop in energy production.
3) Routine maintenance:
The panels may underperform in case of dust accumulation or micro-damage to the panel. Hence, routine maintenance can help to avoid a problem or diagnose it at an early stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, A solar panel can be installed by yourself by following the instructions. However, necessary precautions need to be taken to prevent any accidents. One may seek professional help if required.
On average, 17 solar panels of 400-watt are required to power a house. However, this number may range from 13-19 considering the fluctuations in sunlight received and utility.
Yes, AC can be run with solar power with capacity ranging from 3kW to 10kW. To know more about it, read this article:
Yes, A solar can be run without a battery. Such a system is known as an on-grid system. In the absence of sunlight, the energy is drawn from the grid because the battery stores solar energy.
Solar panels outperform an inverter. An inverter converts DC to AC from sources like batteries or fuel cells. However, Solar panels produce enormous amounts of DC from solar energy. The solar panel is much better in the long run.
No, AC cable cannot be used for solar panels. A DC cable has a thin coppered wire having minimum resistance, suitable for a direct current
1kW is enough to run a 2-3BHK house having appliances like a TV, refrigerator, AC, charge a laptop, fans, and tube lights. On average, approx. 800 watts can be consumed daily.
Wiring the solar panel to the breaker box prevents the mishap in case of current overload and distributes the electricity. To connect the solar panel to the breaker box, follow the instructions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HDOnEjLUIU&ab_channel=AhhLifesGood
Summary
Key Takeaways
Harnessing solar energy may seem costly, but once installed, it proves to be an energy and money saver. The governments support the use of green energy by providing subsidies to the people. The investment may not be worth it if the panel is not installed at a proper site, hence choosing an appropriate site is equally important. The growing market demand for solar panels has motivated numerous manufacturers to produce a variety of panels. One needs to choose carefully based on the amount of energy required. Lack of sufficient funds shall not stop you from using solar energy, as the panel can also rented for 25 years. There are other options like solar loans to help you fund the solar panel. However, to install a panel permits from local authorities are required before proceeding with the installation process. The process of installation begins with buying the necessary equipment and other components of the solar panel. Followed by mounting the panel and then installation of the panel. Next, set up a monitoring system to ensure it functions optimally. Last but not the least is the routine maintenance.
Facts About Solar Installation in India
- The cost of a solar panel can be calculated using a solar calculator. However, in India, it costs approx. 3,15,000 – 3,57,000 along with installation. This cost is before the application of subsidy.
- The ideal site for installing a solar panel is usually a rooftop or ground to capture the maximum amount of sunlight.
- A solar panel can be bought or rented. Financial help can be provided by banks to buy a panel.
- To install a solar panel, the rack is first set up, followed by installation of the panel. The solar panel is electrically wired with an inverter and solar battery.
- It is important to monitor the working of the panel and maintain it on a routine basis.
