Solar Rooftop System

Solar Rooftop System

Solar Rooftop System

Solar panels are increasingly being installed by homeowners wishing to take advantage of a system that produces green energy and insulates them from rising energy prices. A rooftop solar power system can provide us with a clean and efficient source of energy for the home, saving us money and reducing dependence on the power grid. If you are worried about the amount of money spent in installation, just know that it will pay you back in just six to nine years in terms of savings in monthly bills. The useful life of a typical solar power plant is considered to be 25 years. By choosing solar, you make an investment you can be proud of and show your commitment to clean, renewable energy. In this report, we explain the common types of solar electric systems, the parameters on the basis of which one may choose the one that best suits their requirements, and other points that may concern the consumer.

Simply put, a solar rooftop photovoltaic (PV) system converts sun’s light energy into electricity energy through solar panels mounted on the rooftop of a building. This is how a solar panel works. As light hits the solar panels, the solar radiation is converted into direct current (DC). The direct current flows from the panels and is converted by the solar inverter into alternating current (AC) used by local electric utilities. The plant can be connected to the grid or can be designed to be off-grid.

Rooftop solar is helping consumers not only reduce their electricity bills, but also do their bit for the environment. It allows them to generate electricity for self-consumption and sell surplus, if any, to the discom, which in-turn pays them for the surplus energy generated over and above their own consumption as per applicable regulations.

Why Solar Rooftop?

  1. Your vacant rooftop space will be fruitfully utilised.
  2. Your electricity bills will be reduced.
  3. This will be your contribution towards reducing dependence on grid.
  4. This will also contribute in reduction of CO2 emissions.

Components that are required for rooftop solar installations are: photovoltaic panels (to convert solar sunshine into direct electricity), batteries to store electricity when power is not required and the sun is shining, inverters to convert direct current (DC) into AC, cables and other miscellaneous items like junction boxes, earthing, lighting arrestors and conduits. Panels account for about 50 per cent of the total cost.

Types of Solar Electric System

The common types of solar electric system are described here. Each has distinct applications and components.

1) Grid-connected

In this system the solar panels are connected to your local utility electrical grid. A grid-connected system consists of: 

  • Solar panels mounted on the roof 
  • An inverter to convert electricity from DC energy into AC
  • A junction box that connects the solar-panel wiring to the breaker panel on the home
  • A power meter that displays how much power the home produces and uses

    2) Grid-connected with battery backup

    Very similar to the grid-connected system, this system adds a battery bank to collect the power generated from the solar panels. Power stored in the batteries can be used during outages. The battery bank collects power produced by the solar panels, sends it to breaker box, and then into the house power system. 

    3) Off-grid or standalone

    Off-grid systems are not tied to any utility power lines and are most common in remote areas where connecting to the utility grid is more expensive than purchasing an off-grid system. In off-grid systems, the solar electric system represents the home’s main source of power. Batteries store unused solar energy for use at night. Generators and other backup fuel sources are sometimes used as backup power when the solar power stored in the batteries is not enough to meet household needs.

    How to Choose a System

    Your home’s power requirements, roof type and solar resource will determine the type and size of the solar electric system. The right choice will depend on how much sunlight your area receives, your budget, how much conventional power you want to offset with solar power, and where the solar panels will be mounted. Please check all details at link given below: https://solarrooftop.gov.in/rooftop_calculator

    Efficiency is an important parameter. This is a measure of the panel’s electricity output (in watts) compared to its surface area – basically how much solar energy is converted into electrical power, which is usually around 15 per cent to 20 per cent depending upon the sophistication of the panel. Generally, the higher the efficiency, the more power you can get from a given roof area, and you might have lower installation costs too. However, if you have plenty of roof space, you may find it more economical to buy cheaper panels with lower efficiency and just use more of them.

    Top Solar Brands/companies 

    Tata Solar, Luminous Solar, Adani solar, Vikram solar, Moser Baer Solar, Sukam Solar, Havells Solar Solaredge, Microtek Solar, Exide Solar,  Waaree Solar, Vikram Solar, Jakson Solar, Lubi Solar, Delta Solar Inverter, ABB Solar Inverter, Consul Neowatt Solar Hybrid Inverters.

    What is the Cost?

    The cost of a solar PV system will depend on many variables including the system size and the quality of components used. The approximate cost of a 1 kWp (kilowatt peak) rooftop solar PV project ranges from Rs 55,000 to Rs 85,000  for the state of Delhi – this includes installation charges but excludes cost of storage batteries (if required) and subsidy. The overall cost depends on the size of the project as rates are a little lower for a higher-size project. Prices of solar PV systems offered by various vendors can differ significantly.

    Cost and Equipments for a 1 kW Off-grid Solar System

    Solar PV module (250 watt peak [wp] x 4 [number of systems]): Rs 35,000–Rs 40000/- 

    PV module mounting structure (1 kW set): Rs 5,000 

    Tubular batteries (150 Ah x 2 [number of batteries]): Rs 22,000–Rs 28,000 

    Solar inverter (1.5 kilo-volt-amperes [KVA]): Rs 22,000–Rs 25,000

    Cabling and other accessories: Rs 10,000

    Transportation and installation: Rs 10,000  

    The above-mentioned costs will come with GST extra

    Generating units per day = 4–4.5 units

    (Total project cost of one off-grid rooftop solar system works out to Rs 60,000–Rs 90,000/kWp. Final cost will vary depending on quality of equipments/brands.)

    Is 1 kW enough to run a house?

    According to solar power system experts, one kilowatt (kw) of the solar system is sufficient for an average family of three to four people with only requirement of running a couple of tube lights, charger and fans. However, for a larger family or to run an air conditioner at home, a 3-5 kW solar system will be required at least. 

    Subsidy

    There is a subsidy of 40 per cent (up to 3 KW) of maximum of the actual project cost from the ministry of new and renewable energy (MNRE), to be routed through discoms. 

    Renewable Power Net Import/Export Bill

    The consumer can download the solar net-metering rooftop application form from the websites of DISCOMs. The consumer will receive a net import/export bill indicating either net export to the grid or net import from the grid. The consumer will settle the same as per existing norms.

    The consumer shall be paid for net energy credits that remain unadjusted at the end of the financial year at the rate of average power purchase cost (APPC) of the distribution licensee for the respective year on provisional basis. The consumer shall settle the same as per existing norms. Discom will pay the consumer for surplus power generated which remain unadjusted at the end of financial year as per existing regulation.

    What Is Net Metering? 

    In net metering, the excess solar energy is exported to the grid. This excess solar energy is deducted from the energy imported from the grid subject to certain conditions. The consumer pays for the net energy imported from the grid.

    Maintenance

    Warranties and Insurance 

    Most solar electric systems come with a five-year guarantee and 25-year warranty, but maintenance may be required to comply with a manufacturer’s warranty.

    Proper maintenance of your system will keep it running smoothly. Most vendors recommend a yearly maintenance check by your installer. Solar panel may need to be cleaned in climates with infrequent rainfall.

    The Tips that Matter

    • Improve the energy efficiency in your home to save up to 30 per cent on your bills. You can do this by turning off appliances and using energy-efficient appliances/lights.
    • Assess what energy you currently use and the system capacity you need (and can afford).
    • Check if your roof faces the right direction. North-facing panels will produce to their full capacity.
    • Ensure there are no trees, power lines or other structures shading your roof.
    • Try to figure out your system’s payback time.
    • Are you planning to install a storage battery, so you can store the solar-generated electricity for night time use? Check the latest calculations on home-battery storage and payback time.
    • Get multiple quotes from installers to ensure you are getting a good deal.
    • Are you planning to install a storage battery, so you can store the solar-generated electricity for night time use? Check the latest calculations on home-battery storage and payback time.
    • Make sure the installer is accredited by the government and that the panel meets the required standards.

    Some FAQs

    • What is a grid-connected rooftop solar PV system? 

    In grid-connected rooftop, the DC power generated from the solar photovoltaic (SPV) panel is converted into AC power using a power conditioning unit (PCU) and it is fed to the grid, either of 33 kV/11 kV three-phase lines or of 440 volt/220 volt three-phase lines/single-phase line, depending on the capacity of the system installed at institution/commercial establishment or residential complex and the regulatory framework specified for respective states. These SPV systems generate power during the daytime which is utilised fully by powering captive loads and feed excess power to the grid. Where solar power is not sufficient due to cloud cover, etc., the captive loads are served by drawing power from the grid. 

    • Where are such plants installed? 

    Such SPV systems can be installed at the rooftops of residential and commercial complexes, housing societies, community centres, government organisations, private institutions, etc.

    • How much roof area is required to set up the grid-connected rooftop solar PV system? 

    A 1 kW rooftop system generally requires 12 sq. metres (130 square feet) of flat, shadow-free area (preferably south-facing). Actual sizing depends also on local factors of solar radiation and weather conditions and shape of the roof.

    • Do you need a contractor or is it a do-it-yourself (DIY) thing?  

    You need to install the system through a state nodal agency or an MNRE-empanelled agency (that is, contractor) for getting MNRE subsidy. 

    • What are the requirements for installing grid-connected rooftop solar PV power plants? 
    • A vacant roof area of 10–12 sq. metres for installation of 1 kWp SPV system
    • A three-phases/one-phase supply service connection
    • Mandatory safety precautions/features installed as per the norms
    • A single bi-directional meter for export and import
    • Standard equipment as per the norms of MNRE 
    • Ownership permission and necessary documents

    • What is the annual energy generated from a 1 kW solar power plant? 

    The usual benchmark for energy generated from a 1 kW solar power plant is 1,500 units per annum. The amount of actual energy generated depends on both internal and external factors. External factors that are beyond the control of a solar power developer can include these: 

    1. a) number of sunny days b) solar irradiation c) day temperatures d) air mass, and e) location.

    Get all information you want to know

    NIC has developed a simple but informative and useful application for the layman as well as the developers of solar power. Initially android version of the app has developed. The app namely ARUN (Atal Rooftop solar User Navigator) has got the following features.

    • Basics:- Basics knowledge about the installation of solar rooftop in your house / premise 
    • Guidelines: Brief guide for how to install the solar rooftop system 
    • Rooftop Solar Calculator: It will give an estimate of installation based on different parameters like are, capacity or budget. 
    • How to install: Here you are submitting the interest request to MNRE and the MNRE approved agencies will contact you for further help 
    • Schemes & Policies: Here you can view the policies and schemes of the state of your choice 
    • List of SNAs & Agencies: You can view the MNRE approved agencies of the state of your choice 
    • FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions clear almost all doubts about solar rooftop installation 
    • Feedback: You can send your request / feedback to MNRE

    Govt Advisory:

    Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India is implementing Grid-connected Rooftop Solar Scheme (Phase-II). Under this scheme Ministry is providing 40% subsidy for the first 3 kW and 20% subsidy beyond 3 kW and up to 10 kW. The scheme is being implemented in the states by local Electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOMs).

    Residential consumers willing to set-up a rooftop solar plant under MNRE scheme can apply online and get rooftop solar plants installed by listed vendors. For this, they have to pay the cost of rooftop solar plant by reducing the subsidy amount given by the Ministry as per the prescribed rate to the vendor. The process of which is given on the online portal of the DISCOMs. The subsidy amount will be provided to the vendors by the Ministry through the DISCOMs. Domestic consumers are informed that to get subsidy under the scheme of the Ministry, they should install rooftop solar plants only from the empanelled vendors of the DISCOMs following due process of approval by DISCOMs.

    For more information, contact the concerned DISCOM or dial MNRE’s toll free number 1800- 180-3333. Click on https://solarrooftop.gov.in/grid_others/discomPortalLinks to know the online portal of your DISCOM.

    Sources: http://mnre.gov.in, https://solarrooftop.gov.in

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    FAQs on Solar Photovoltaic System

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    FAQs on Solar Photovoltaic System

    solar photovoltaic system
    What are solar rooftop systems?

    A solar rooftop photovoltaic (PY)  system converts the sun’s light energy into electrical energy through solar panels mounted on the rooftop of a  building. As light hits the solar panels, the solar radiation is converted into direct current  (DC).  The direct current flows from the panels and is converted by the solar inverter into alternating current (AC) used by local electric utilities. The plant can be connected to the grid or can be designed to be off-grid. Components that are required for rooftop solar installations are photovoltaic panels (to convert solar sunshine into direct electricity), batteries to store electricity when power is not required and the sun is shining, inverters to convert direct current (DC) into AC, cables and other miscellaneous items like junction boxes, earthing, lighting arrestors and conduits. Panels account for about 50 percent of the total cost

    Solar panels are increasingly being installed by homeowners wishing to take advantage of a system that produces green energy and insulates them from rising energy prices. A rooftop solar power system can provide us with a clean and efficient source of energy for the home, saving us money and reducing dependence on the power grid. If you are worried about the amount of money spent in installation, just know that it will pay you back in just six to nine years in terms of savings in monthly bills. The useful life of a typical solar power plant is considered to be 25 years. The Indian government has committed to generate 100 GW of solar energy by 2022. By choosing solar, you make an investment you can be proud of and show your commitment to clean, renewable energy. In this report, we explain the common types of solar electric systems, the parameters on the basis of which one may choose the one that best suits their requirements, and other points that may concern the consumer.

    Why Solar Rooftop?

    Your   vacant   rooftop   space   will   be fruitfully utilized. Your electricity bills will be reduced. This will be your contribution towards reducing dependence on the grid. This will also contribute in the reduction of CO2 emissions. Types of Solar Electric System The common types of solar electric systems are described here.  Each has distinct applications and components. Grid-connected In this system the solar panels are connected to your local utility electrical grid.  A grid-connected system consists of:   Solar panels mounted on the roof   An inverter to convert electricity from DC energy into AC.  A  junction box that connects the solar-panel wiring to the breaker panel on the home   A power meter that displays how much power the home produces and uses  Grid-connected with battery backup Very similar to the grid-connected system,  this system adds a battery bank to collect the power generated from the solar panels. Power stored in the batteries can be used during outages. The battery bank collects power produced by the solar panels, sends it to the breaker box, and then into the house power system.  Off-grid or standalone Off-grid systems are not tied to any utility power lines and are most common in remote areas where connecting to the utility grid is more expensive than purchasing an off-grid system.  In off-grid systems, the solar electric system represents the home’s main source of power. Batteries store unused solar energy for use at night.  Generators and other backup fuel sources are sometimes used as backup power when the solar power stored in the batteries is not enough to meet household needs.

    What is a grid-connected rooftop solar PV system?

    In grid-connected rooftop, the DC power generated from the solar photovoltaic (SPY) panel is converted into AC power using a power conditioning unit (PCU), and it is fed to the grid, either of 33 kY/11  kY three-phase lines or of  440 volt/220-volt three-phase lines/single-phase line,  depending on the capacity of the system installed at the institution/ commercial establishment or residential complex and the regulatory framework specified for respective states. These SPY systems generate power during the daytime which is utilized fully by powering captive loads and feed excess power to the grid. Where solar power is not sufficient due to cloud cover, etc., the captive loads are served by drawing power from the grid.

    Where can such solar plants be installed?

    Such   SPY   systems can be installed at the rooftops of residential and commercial complexes, housing societies, community centers,  government organizations, private institutions, etc.

    How much roof area is required to set up the grid-connected rooftop solar PV system?

    A 1 kW rooftop system generally requires 12 sq. meters (130  square feet)  of flat, shadow-free area (preferably south-facing).   Actual sizing depends also on local factors of solar radiation and weather conditions and the shape of the roof.

    Do you need a contractor or is it a do-it- yourself (DIV) thing?

    You need to install the system through a  state nodal agency or an MNRE-empanelled agency (that is, contractor) for getting MNRE subsidy.

    What are the other fiscal benefits available for installing grid-connected rooftop solar PV power plants?

    Generation-based incentive (GBI)  Exemption on open access as provided by DERC   Exemption on conversion charges for residential consumers   Exemption on wheeling charges, banking, cross- subsidy and other charges for installing SPY power systems installed under net-metering scheme.   Excise  duty  exemption  as provided  by  Ministry of Finance, Government of India, for installing a minimum 100 kWp grid-connected rooftop SPY power plant   Accelerated depreciation benefit and tax holiday  

    Is any Central Financial Assistance (CFA) provided for residential consumers by MNRE for installing grid-connected rooftop solar PV power plants?

    Central financial assistance (CFA) of 30 percent of the benchmark cost or as applicable from time to time is provided for installation of grid-connected rooftop solar power plants, of capacity 1 kW up to 500 kW. This is available to residential consumers (irrespective of the electricity connection).

    What are the requirements for installing grid- connected rooftop solar PV power plants?

    A   vacant   roof   area   of   10-12   sq. meters for installation of 1 kWp SPY system A three-phases/one-phase supply service connection Mandatory safety precautions/features installed as per the norms A single   bi-directional   meter   for  export   and import Standard equipment as per the norms of MNRE Ownership permission and necessary documents

    What is the annual energy generated from a 1 kW solar power plant?

    The usual benchmark for energy generated from a 1 kW solar power plant is 1,500 units per annum. The amount of actual energy generated depends on both internal and external factors. External factors that are beyond the control of a solar power developer can include these: a) number of sunny days, b) solar irradiation, c) day temperatures, d) air mass and e) location.

    What are the factors affecting generation?

    Consumer VOICE experts present you the most comprehensive solar rooftop system buying guide that tells about the solar panel price, cost of installation of solar panels on rooftop, metering, maintenance, link to the suppliers and contractors and much more.

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    Consumer VOICE experts present you the most comprehensive solar rooftop system buying guide that tells about the solar panel price, cost of installation of solar panels on rooftop, metering, maintenance, link to the suppliers and contractors and much more.

    WHERE TO START FROM FOR SOLAR ROOFTOP SYSTEM?

    Currently, there are two ways through which an individual can install a rooftop solar system. One is the capital-expenditure model where an individual needs to make an upfront payment. For those who are unwilling or unable to put up the money, or where rooftop space is limited, there is the renewable energy servicing company (RESCO) model. In this, a terrace owner or group of owners allows a solar developer to install a plant at a common place. The plant is installed, owned and run by the company or investor, and the consumer pays for the cheaper power at around Rs 5 to Rs 6 per unit – this compares favourably against the Rs 7 to Rs 9 per unit for conventional supply from discoms.

    INSTALLATION PROCESS OF SOLAR ROOFTOP SYSTEM

    Step 01 Apply online.
    Step 02 Empanelled agencies will contact you.
    Step 03 Empanelled agency does pre-feasibility study.
    Step 04 Agency will collect the balance cost payable by  beneficiary  after  deducting  subsidy  payable  by MNRE.
    Step  05  Applicant  has  to  pay  connectivity  charges and execute connectivity agreement with NDMC for net metering.

    HOW TO CHOOSE A SOLAR ROOFTOP SYSTEM

    The type and size of solar rooftop system depends on individual requirements/factors. These include

    1. Your power consumption
    2. Roof  type  
    3. Solar Resource

    The right choice will depend on how  much  sunlight  your  area  receives,  your  budget, how  much  conventional  power  you  want  to  offset with solar power, and where the solar panels will be mounted.

    Efficiency  is  an  important  parameter.  This  is  a measure  of  the  panel’s  electricity  output  (in  watts) compared  to  its  surface  area  –  basically  how  much solar energy is converted into electrical power, which is usually around 15 per cent to 20 per cent depending upon the sophistication of the panel. Generally, the higher the efficiency, the more power you can get from a given roof area, and you might have lower installation costs too. However, if you have plenty of roof space, you may find it more economical to buy cheaper panels with lower efficiency and just use more of them.

    WHAT IS THE SOLAR PANEL PRICE?

    The cost of a solar photovoltaic (PY) system will depend on many variables including the system size and the quality of components used. The approximate cost of a 1 kWp (kilowatt peak) rooftop solar PY project ranges from Rs 55,000 to Rs 87,000   for the state of Delhi – this includes   installation   charges   but   excludes   cost   of storage batteries (if required) and subsidy. The overall cost depends on the size of the project as rates are a little lower for a higher-size project. Prices of solar PY systems offered by various vendors can differ significantly.

    COST OF EQUIPMENTS FOR A 1 KW OFF-GRID SOLAR SYSTEM

    • Solar PY module (250 watt peak [wp] x 4 [number of systems]): Rs 36,000-Rs 40000/-
    • PY module mounting structure (1 kW set): Rs 5,000
    • Tubular batteries (150 Ah x 2 [number of batteries]): Rs 27,000-Rs 30,000
    • Solar inverter (1.5 kilo-volt-amperes [KYA]): Rs 22,000-Rs 25,000
    • Cabling and other accessories: Rs 10,000
    • Transportation and installation: Rs 10,000
    • The above mentioned costs will come with GST @ 5% extra
    • Generating units per day = 4-4.5 units
    • (Total  project  cost  (subsidy  +  cost  to  consumer)  of  one  off-grid  rooftop  solar  system  works  out  to
    • Rs 55,000-Rs 87,000/kWp. Final cost will vary depending on quality of equipments/brands.)

    SOLAR PANEL SUBSIDY

    There  is  a  subsidy  of  30  percent  of  maximum benchmark cost – which is Rs 75,000 – per kilowatt (kW)   or   the   actual   project   cost,  whichever   is lower,  from  the  ministry  of  new  and  renewable energy (MNRE), to be routed through Solar Energy Corporation  of  India  (SECI). In  Delhi,  the  local contractor   will   charge   you   after   deducting   the government-given   subsidy,   which   they   will   later claim from the government.

    WHO ARE THE SUPPLIERS/CONTRACTORS?

    Please refer to this link for local agencies in various states:
    http://solarrooftop.gov.in/Agencies_list.html

    WARRANTIES AND INSURANCE

    Most solar electric systems come with a five- year   guarantee   and   25-year   warranty,   but maintenance may be required to comply with a manufacturer’s warranty.

    RENEWABLE POWER NET IMPORT/EXPORT BILL

    The   consumer   can   download   the   solar   net- metering rooftop application form from the websites of  DISCOMs.  The  consumer  will  receive  a  net import/export bill indicating either net export to the grid or net import from the grid. The consumer will settle the same as per existing norms.

    NET METERING

    In  net  metering,  the  excess  solar  energy  is exported to the grid. This excess solar energy is  deducted  from  the  energy  imported  from the  grid  subject  to  certain  conditions.  The consumer  pays  for  the  net  energy  imported from the grid. The consumer shall be paid for net energy credits that remain unadjusted at the end of the financial year at the rate of average power purchase cost (APPC) of the distribution licensee for the respective year on provisional basis. The consumer shall settle the same as per existing norms. Discom will pay the consumer for surplus power generated which remain unadjusted at the end of financial year as per existing regulation. The  trued-up  price  by  Delhi  Electricity  Regulatory Commission  (DERC)  was  Rs  5.00  per  unit  for  FY 2015-16.

    HOW TO MAINTAIN SOLAR ROOFTOP SYSTEM

    Proper  maintenance  of  your  system  will  keep  it running smoothly. Most vendors recommend a yearly maintenance check by your installer.
    Solar panel may need to be cleaned in climates with infrequent rainfall.

    IMPORTANT TIPS

    •   Improve the energy efficiency in your home to save up to 30 per cent on your bills. You can do this by turning off appliances and using energy-efficient appliances/lights.
    •   Assess what energy you currently use and the system capacity you need (and can afford).
    •   Check if your roof faces the right direction. North-facing panels will produce to their full capacity.
    •   Ensure there are no trees, power lines or other structures shading your roof.
    •   Try to figure out your system’s payback time.
    •   Are  you  planning  to  install  a  storage  battery,  so  you  can  store  the  solar-generated  electricity  for nighttime use? Check the latest calculations on home-battery storage and payback time.
    •   Get multiple quotes from installers to ensure you are getting a good deal.
    •   Make sure the installer is accredited by the government and that the panel meets the required standards.

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