Solar Panel Price in India 2026: Complete Guide with Subsidy
1 kW to 10 kW system prices, the PM Surya Ghar subsidy slabs, and Tata vs Adani vs Waaree panel comparison.
The short answer
In 2026, a residential on-grid solar system in India costs roughly ₹60,000–70,000 per kW installed. The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana subsidizes ₹30,000 (1 kW), ₹60,000 (2 kW) and ₹78,000 (3 kW+), credited directly to your bank account — which brings the net cost of a 3 kW system down to around ₹1.1–1.3 lakh. Payback after subsidy is typically 2–4 years, among the fastest in the world.
System prices by size (2026, before subsidy)
| System size | Installed cost (₹) | Approx. panels (580W) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 kW | ₹60,000–75,000 | 2 |
| 2 kW | ₹1,15,000–1,35,000 | 4 |
| 3 kW | ₹1,65,000–1,90,000 | 6 |
| 5 kW | ₹2,60,000–3,00,000 | 9 |
| 10 kW | ₹5,00,000–5,80,000 | 18 |
These are typical all-in quotes using domestic (DCR-compliant) panels and branded inverters — DCR modules are mandatory for the subsidy. Imported non-DCR panels can be cheaper but don't qualify.
PM Surya Ghar subsidy: the slabs and your net cost
The subsidy is the centerpiece of Indian residential solar economics. It is fixed by capacity and paid directly to the beneficiary after installation and inspection:
| Capacity | Subsidy | Net cost after subsidy (est.) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 kW | ₹30,000 | ₹30,000–45,000 |
| 2 kW | ₹60,000 | ₹55,000–75,000 |
| 3 kW | ₹78,000 | ₹87,000–1,12,000 |
| 5 kW | ₹78,000 | ₹1,82,000–2,22,000 |
| 10 kW | ₹78,000 | ₹4,22,000–5,02,000 |
Note the subsidy caps at ₹78,000 — it covers a larger share of small systems, which is why 2–3 kW is the sweet spot for most homes. The process: apply on the national portal, get feasibility approval from your DISCOM, install through a registered vendor, pass inspection, then receive the subsidy in your bank account, usually within 30–90 days.
Tata vs Adani vs Waaree: the big three compared
| Factor | Tata Power Solar | Adani (Mundra Solar) | Waaree |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing scale | Large, integrated | Large, integrated | India's largest by capacity |
| Panel efficiency (top lines) | ~21–22% | ~21–22% | ~21–22% |
| Service network | Widest, EPC arm | Growing | Wide dealer network |
| Price positioning | Premium | Competitive | Competitive |
| Performance warranty | 25–30 yrs | 25–30 yrs | 25–30 yrs |
Honestly, all three make excellent panels and all three qualify for the subsidy. Choose on local dealer support, warranty paperwork, and price — a great local Waaree dealer beats a distant Tata EPC on service response every time. Also compare the inverter brand in the quote; the panel brand matters less than people think.
State-level notes
- Net metering caps vary. Most states allow net metering up to the sanctioned load; a few have shifted to gross metering or net billing for larger systems — check your DISCOM's current policy before sizing above 3 kW.
- High-tariff states pay back fastest. Maharashtra, Karnataka, Delhi and Tamil Nadu tariffs make sub-3-year paybacks common after subsidy.
- DISCOM timelines differ. Feasibility approval and meter installation can take 2 weeks in efficient DISCOMs and 2+ months in slower ones — ask your vendor for realistic timelines in your area.
For the step-by-step process from survey to switch-on, see our solar installation guide, and for the full payback math read our homeowner benefits guide. To price your own system, use the India solar cost calculator.
India solar price FAQ
Straight answers, no fluff. Then run your own numbers above.
What is the 1 kW solar system price in India in 2026?
A 1 kW on-grid system typically costs ₹60,000–75,000 installed. After the PM Surya Ghar subsidy of ₹30,000, the net cost drops to roughly ₹30,000–45,000.
How much is the PM Surya Ghar subsidy?
₹30,000 for 1 kW, ₹60,000 for 2 kW, and ₹78,000 for 3 kW and above. The subsidy is credited directly to the beneficiary's bank account after installation and inspection.
Which is better: Tata, Adani or Waaree solar panels?
All three are strong domestic manufacturers. Tata Power Solar leads on service network and warranty support, Adani (Mundra Solar) offers competitive pricing on high-wattage modules, and Waaree is the largest manufacturer by capacity with wide availability. Compare efficiency, warranty terms, and local dealer support rather than brand name alone.
Is the subsidy available for hybrid systems with batteries?
The PM Surya Ghar subsidy applies to on-grid rooftop systems; batteries are an extra cost on top. If you want backup power, add battery costs separately to your budget.
How long does the subsidy take to arrive?
Typically 30–90 days after the installation is inspected and net metering is approved, credited directly to your bank account. Your vendor usually handles the application paperwork.
How much rooftop space does a 5 kW system need?
About 400–500 sq ft of shade-free space with 580W-class panels (roughly 9 panels). Add margin if your roof is not optimally oriented.
Is solar worth it in India without the subsidy?
Yes, in most states. Grid tariffs of ₹6–10 per unit give a payback of 4–6 years even without subsidy. The subsidy shortens it to 2–4 years — one of the best residential paybacks anywhere in the world.
Run your own numbers
Reading is good. Math is better. Punch your bill and location into the free calculator and see what solar costs for you.