Rooftop Solar Subsidy in Maharashtra: Step-by-Step Guide

For many homeowners in Maharashtra, rooftop solar sounds like a great idea, lower electricity bills, cleaner energy, and long-term savings. But the moment the word subsidy comes up, confusion follows.

Is the subsidy real?
Who gives it, state or central government?
What documents are needed?
And why do some people get it smoothly while others struggle?

If you’re planning to install rooftop solar and want to understand how the rooftop solar subsidy in Maharashtra actually works, this guide will walk you through the process step by step without jargon or unrealistic promises.

Understanding Rooftop Solar Subsidy in Maharashtra

The solar panel subsidy Maharashtra residents receive is mainly part of the central government solar subsidy scheme, implemented through the national rooftop solar program. The Maharashtra government supports this initiative by coordinating with local DISCOMs for approvals, inspections, and net metering.

In simple terms:

• Subsidy is provided by the central government
• Execution and verification are handled locally in Maharashtra
• Subsidy is applicable only for residential rooftop solar systems

This scheme is especially designed for homeowners under the government solar scheme for home, encouraging clean energy adoption while reducing electricity costs.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility First

Before applying, it’s important to know whether you qualify for the solar subsidy in Maharashtra.

You are generally eligible if:

• You own a residential property
• The rooftop is suitable for solar installation
• You plan to install an on-grid solar system
• Net metering is allowed by your local DISCOM

Subsidy is not applicable for commercial or industrial systems, and it doesn’t apply to off-grid systems with batteries alone.

Step 2: Decide the Right Solar System Size

Choosing the correct system size is crucial, not just for savings, but also for subsidy approval.

System size depends on:

• Your average monthly electricity consumption
• Available rooftop area
• Local DISCOM load limits

Many homeowners also want to know the solar system price in India with subsidy. While prices vary based on components and capacity, subsidy directly reduces the upfront cost, improving payback time significantly.

Step 3: Apply Through the Official Solar Portal

To claim the rooftop solar subsidy in Maharashtra, applications must be submitted through the official national rooftop solar portal.

At this stage:

• You submit basic consumer and property details
• Select your DISCOM
• Choose an approved solar installer
• Upload required documents

Accuracy here matters. Small errors in names, meter numbers, or documents can delay approval.

Step 4: Get Technical Feasibility & DISCOM Approval

Once the application is submitted, the DISCOM reviews it for:

• Load capacity
• Transformer availability
• Technical feasibility

This step is where timelines can vary across cities in Maharashtra. Approval may take a few weeks, depending on local processes.

Only after this approval can the installation move forward.

Step 5: Solar Installation & Licensing

After approval, the solar system is installed as per guidelines. This includes:

• Solar panels
• Inverter
• Structure
• Wiring and safety components

Proper solar panel licensing and compliance with technical standards are essential. Systems installed without following guidelines may face inspection issues later.

Step 6: Net Meter Installation & Inspection

Post-installation, the DISCOM conducts a site inspection. Once cleared:

• A net meter is installed
• Your system is synchronized with the grid

Net metering allows you to export excess power and earn credits on your electricity bill, one of the biggest financial benefits of rooftop solar.

Step 7: Subsidy Claim & Disbursement

After net meter installation:

• Installation details are uploaded to the portal
• Final inspection is completed
• Subsidy is processed and credited directly to your bank account

This is why subsidy is not instant. The Maharashtra government solar subsidy process involves verification at multiple levels to prevent misuse.

Documents Required for Rooftop Solar Subsidy in Maharashtra

Having the right documents ready makes the process much smoother. Commonly required documents include:

• Latest electricity bill
• Aadhaar card
• PAN card
• Proof of property ownership
• Rooftop photographs
• Cancelled cheque or bank details
• Net metering agreement
• Installation completion report

Document formats and requirements may vary slightly by DISCOM, but these form the basic checklist.

Conclusion

Claiming the rooftop solar subsidy in Maharashtra is not complicated, but it does require clarity, correct documentation, and patience.

With the right guidance, homeowners can benefit from:

• Lower installation costs
• Reduced electricity bills
• Long-term energy independence
• Government-backed financial support

Understanding the process upfront helps avoid delays and unrealistic expectations. Solar is a long-term investment, and when combined with subsidy, it becomes even more rewarding.