Neha Net In

Delhi, India’s bustling capital, is known for its dynamic growth, vibrant culture, and, unfortunately, its rising electricity bills. With increasing energy demands and environmental concerns, more residents and businesses in Delhi are turning to rooftop solar systems to power their spaces sustainably. But how exactly does a rooftop solar system work, and why is it becoming so popular in Delhi? Let’s break it down in a simple and detailed way.

1. What is a Rooftop Solar System?

A rooftop solar system is a setup installed on the roof of a building that captures sunlight and converts it into usable electricity. Unlike large solar farms, rooftop systems are designed for residential homes, commercial complexes, institutions, and small industries.

In Delhi, these systems are especially attractive because of the city’s high solar potential—the region receives about 300 sunny days annually, which is ideal for generating clean, renewable power.

2. Main Components of a Rooftop Solar System

A rooftop solar power system in Delhi typically includes the following components:

1. Solar Panels – These are the heart of the system. Made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells, they absorb sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity.


2. Inverter – Since most home appliances use alternating current (AC), the inverter converts the DC electricity generated by the panels into AC power.


3. Mounting Structure – This is the frame that holds the solar panels in place at the right angle and direction for maximum sunlight exposure.


4. Batteries (optional) – Used in off-grid systems to store excess power for use when sunlight is unavailable.


5. Net Meter – For grid-connected systems, this device measures the electricity imported from the grid and the surplus power exported back to it.


6. Cables & Wiring – These connect all the components and ensure smooth power transmission.

3. How Does It Work? Step-by-Step Process

Let’s walk through the working of a rooftop solar system in Delhi:

Step 1: Sunlight Absorption

• The process begins when sunlight falls on the solar PV panels installed on your roof.


• The photovoltaic cells in the panels are made from semiconductor materials like silicon, which release electrons when exposed to sunlight, generating an electric current.

Step 2: DC Electricity Generation

• The PV cells produce direct current (DC) electricity.


• However, DC power cannot directly run most household appliances, which need AC power.

Step 3: DC to AC Conversion

• The inverter takes the DC power from the panels and converts it into alternating current (AC) power, making it compatible with your home or office appliances.

Step 4: Power Usage

• The generated AC electricity is used instantly to run fans, lights, refrigerators, air conditioners, computers, and other devices.

Step 5: Excess Energy Management

• If your system is grid-connected and you produce more electricity than you consume, the surplus power flows back into the grid.


• This is tracked by the net meter, and you receive credits for the extra units exported.


• If your system is off-grid, the extra electricity is stored in batteries for later use.

4. Types of Rooftop Solar Systems in Delhi

In Delhi, you can choose from three main types of rooftop solar systems:

Grid-Connected Solar System

• Connected directly to the power grid.


• No batteries required.


• Allows net metering, so you can earn credits for extra power sent to the grid.

Off-Grid Solar System

• Works independently from the grid.


• Requires battery storage.


• Ideal for areas with frequent power cuts.

Hybrid Solar System

• A combination of grid-connected and off-grid systems.


• Can store energy in batteries and export excess power to the grid.

5. Why Rooftop Solar Works Well in Delhi

Delhi has all the right conditions for rooftop solar adoption:

• High Solar Irradiance – Around 5.5 kWh/m²/day, perfect for electricity generation.


• Government Subsidies – Under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and other solar rooftop programs, residents can get subsidies up to 40% for small capacity systems.


• Net Metering Policy – Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) supports net metering, enabling cost savings.


• Rising Electricity Costs – Solar power helps reduce dependence on costly grid electricity.


• Environmental Benefits – Reduces carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.

6. Installation Process in Delhi

Here’s how installing a rooftop solar system typically works in Delhi:

Site Assessment

• A solar company visits your home or office to check roof size, direction, shading, and structural strength.

System Design & Quotation

• Based on your electricity consumption, the company designs a suitable system and shares the cost estimate.

Government Approvals & Subsidy Application

• If you want subsidies, the company helps with the application process via the National Portal for Rooftop Solar.

Installation

• The mounting structures and solar panels are installed.


• The inverter, wiring, and net meter are connected.

Testing & Commissioning

• The system is tested, connected to the grid (if applicable), and starts producing power.

7. Cost & Subsidy in Delhi

The cost of a rooftop solar system in Delhi depends on the capacity and type:

• 1 kW System – ₹55,000 to ₹70,000 (without subsidy)


• 3 kW System – ₹1.65 lakh to ₹2.1 lakh


• 5 kW System – ₹2.75 lakh to ₹3.5 lakh

Government Subsidy for Residential Users (2025):

• Up to 3 kW – 40% subsidy


• 3 kW to 10 kW – 20% subsidy on additional capacity

For example:

• A 3 kW system costing ₹1.8 lakh can get a subsidy of ₹72,000, bringing the net cost down to ₹1.08 lakh.

8. Benefits of Rooftop Solar in Delhi

• Lower Electricity Bills – Reduce monthly bills by 50–90%.


• Energy Independence – Generate your own power and rely less on the grid.


• Eco-Friendly – Cut COâ‚‚ emissions and combat pollution.


• Increased Property Value – Solar-equipped homes are more attractive to buyers.


• Long-Term Savings – Payback period of 4–6 years, with 25+ years of free electricity.

9. Challenges & Considerations

• Initial Investment – Although subsidies reduce costs, upfront investment is still required.


• Roof Suitability – Not all roofs are ideal for solar installation.


• Maintenance – Panels need cleaning every 10–15 days, especially in dusty Delhi conditions.


• Policy Awareness – Some residents are unaware of net metering benefits and subsidy processes.

10. Future of Rooftop Solar in Delhi

With the Delhi Government’s push for renewable energy and India’s national target of 500 GW renewable capacity by 2030, rooftop solar will continue to grow. Emerging technologies like bifacial solar panels, TOPCon cells, and smart inverters will make systems more efficient, affordable, and compact.

Final Thoughts

A rooftop solar system in Delhi is not just an investment in technology—it’s an investment in a cleaner, greener future. With abundant sunshine, supportive policies, and falling solar panel prices, now is the perfect time for homeowners, businesses, and institutions in Delhi to embrace solar power.

Whether you opt for a grid-connected setup for bill savings or an off-grid system for energy independence, the process of generating your own electricity is simpler than ever. And with government subsidies, the shift to solar is no longer a distant dream—it’s a reality within reach.