What is the solar subsidy for housing societies? How does this apply to your housing society? And most importantly, how can you leverage this opportunity to make the switch to solar energy while securing financial incentives?
As the world pivots toward clean and renewable energy, India has taken a bold step forward with the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, a flagship program aimed at transforming how we power our homes and communities. This initiative promises to make solar energy more accessible and affordable for all, including housing societies that want to reduce their electricity costs and carbon footprint.
In this detailed guide, we break down everything you need to know about solar subsidy for housing societies, from the benefits and savings to the steps for applying under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
What is the Solar Subsidy for Housing Societies?
The solar subsidy for housing societies is a financial incentive provided by the Government of India to encourage the installation of solar rooftop systems in both individual residences and large-scale housing communities. Under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, housing societies can avail of subsidies to reduce the upfront cost of solar installations, making the transition to renewable energy far more affordable.
For housing societies, this scheme offers a subsidy of ₹18,000 per kW for systems up to 500 kW. This means a potential subsidy of up to ₹90 lakhs, making it a game-changer for cooperative housing societies (CHS) looking to adopt solar energy.
By utilizing this solar subsidy, housing societies can lower their electricity bills and promote sustainable living, all while contributing to India’s ambitious target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
Why Should Housing Societies Consider Going Solar?
Switching to solar energy isn’t just about savings—it’s about the future. Here are several key reasons why your housing society should consider installing a solar power system:
1. Significant Electricity Bill Savings
One of the primary motivations for housing societies to adopt solar is the promise of massive electricity bill reductions. For many large residential complexes, common areas like stairwells, parking lots, elevators, and water pumps consume a considerable amount of electricity, leading to high monthly bills.
By installing a solar power system, societies can offset a significant portion of these costs, ultimately leading to free electricity once the initial investment is paid off. Many housing societies see a full return on their investment within 2-4 years, after which they enjoy decades of virtually cost-free electricity.
2. Reduced Carbon Footprint
Installing a solar system helps housing societies make a positive environmental impact. Solar power generates electricity without harmful emissions, helping reduce the society’s carbon footprint. This aligns with global and national initiatives toward sustainability, allowing societies to contribute to cleaner air and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
3. Increased Property Value
With rising energy costs and growing environmental awareness, properties equipped with solar power systems are increasingly in demand. Housing societies that invest in solar energy often experience an increase in the property’s market value. Prospective buyers see solar installations as an attractive feature that will provide long-term savings and reduced reliance on grid power.
4. Energy Independence
Solar energy offers housing societies greater energy independence by reducing reliance on grid electricity. With the right size of the solar power system and net metering in place, societies can generate their own power, even feeding excess energy back into the grid to earn credits.
Key Benefits of Solar Subsidy for Housing Societies
So, how does the solar subsidy actually help housing societies? Here’s a breakdown of the primary benefits:
- Lower Installation Costs: The subsidy of ₹18,000 per kW significantly reduces the total cost of the solar power system. For a system of up to 500 kW, societies can receive a subsidy of up to ₹90 lakhs, making large installations more feasible.
- Improved Payback Period: With the reduced upfront cost thanks to the subsidy, the payback period for solar installations in housing societies is greatly shortened. In many cases, the system pays for itself in just a few years.
- Ease of Application: The process to apply for the solar subsidy has been simplified for housing societies. Partnering with a reliable vendor like ZunRoof makes the process even easier as we handle all the paperwork and technical requirements.
Massive Cost Savings with Solar Subsidy
Let’s take an example to illustrate the cost savings:
Imagine a housing society that wants to install a 100 kW solar system. Without the subsidy, the project cost could be approximately ₹65 lakhs. However, by applying the solar subsidy of ₹18,000 per kW, the housing society would receive ₹18 lakhs in subsidies, bringing the total cost down to ₹47 lakhs—an impressive 28% savings.
How to Apply for Solar Subsidy for Housing Societies
Applying for a solar subsidy for housing societies under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana may seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Visit the National Portal
Go to the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana website and click on ‘Apply for Rooftop Solar.’ This will redirect you to the application form where you need to fill in the required details.
2. Submit Registration Information
Enter your state, district, and DISCOM (electricity distribution company) details. This is followed by providing your customer account number and basic personal information.
3. Provide Necessary Documents
During the application process, you’ll need to upload several documents such as proof of identity, proof of address, and society registration certificates.
4. Feasibility Clearance
Once the application is submitted, the local DISCOM will assess your property for the feasibility of a solar installation in your housing society. This includes a review of the available roof space and structural integrity.
5. Installation and Commissioning
After feasibility clearance, the housing society can move forward with installing the solar panels. Once installed, the system is tested and approved by the DISCOM, who will issue a commissioning certificate.
6. Receive Subsidy
Upon successful installation and commissioning, the society’s bank account will be credited with the subsidy amount within a few weeks.
Documents Required for Solar Subsidy Application
To successfully apply for the solar subsidy, housing societies will need to gather the following documents:
- Proof of Identity: Aadhaar card or PAN card of the society’s authorised signatory.
- Proof of Address: Utility bill or registration documents of the society’s registered office.
- Society Registration Certificate: Proof of the society’s legal existence.
- Electricity Bills: Recent electricity bills for common areas where the solar system will be installed.
- Roof Ownership Certificate: Proof of ownership or legal right to use the roof for solar panel installation.
- Feasibility Report: A technical report from your DISCOM or solar vendor verifying the suitability of the property for solar installation.
Read more about Solar Panel Subsidy in India.
Partnering with a Trusted Solar Vendor
One of the most important aspects of applying for the solar subsidy for housing societies is choosing a reliable solar vendor. At ZunRoof, we guide housing societies through every stage of the process, from initial consultation to final installation and post-installation support.
Here’s why ZunRoof stands out as your ideal solar partner:
- Expertise in Solar Installations: With years of experience in installing solar systems for both individual homes and housing societies, ZunRoof ensures your solar installation is completed with precision and efficiency.
- Subsidy Application Assistance: We handle the entire subsidy application process on your behalf, ensuring that you secure the full benefits of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
Looking for a solar rooftop for housing societies then you must connect with us. Drop us a text on WhatsApp or call +91-9205324947 to know more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much subsidy can housing societies get under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana?
Housing societies can avail of ₹18,000 per kW, up to a maximum of ₹90 lakhs for installations up to 500 kW.
2. What is the payback period for solar installations in housing societies?
With the subsidy, most housing societies recover their solar investment within 2-4 years, after which they benefit from free electricity.
3. Can a solar vendor assist with the subsidy application process?
Yes, partnering with a reputable solar vendor like ZunRoof can significantly simplify the application process and ensure that you receive the subsidy efficiently.
By choosing solar, housing societies can unlock incredible long-term savings, reduce their carbon footprint, and contribute to India’s green energy future. With the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana offering substantial subsidies, there has never been a better time for your housing society to make the switch.
Ready to take the first step toward clean energy? Contact ZunRoof today and let us help you harness the power of the sun! Stay tuned to our blog for more informative content.