PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana 2026

Launched in February 2024, the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY) is the single biggest residential rooftop solar subsidy ever offered in India. By early 2026 over 1.4 crore households have registered, and the scheme runs until FY2026–27 with a target of 1 crore installations. Here's what you actually get, and how to claim it without getting fleeced by middlemen.

How much subsidy do you get in 2026?

Central Financial Assistance (CFA) is paid directly to your bank account after installation and DISCOM inspection. Slabs (unchanged since launch):

• 1 kW system → ₹30,000
• 2 kW system → ₹60,000
• 3 kW and above → ₹78,000 (capped)

Many states (Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Kerala, Haryana, UP) add a state top-up of ₹10,000–₹30,000 on top of the central subsidy.

Who is eligible?

• You must be the owner of the residential building (or have a written NOC).
• Valid electricity connection in your name.
• Not availed any other central/state solar subsidy before.
• Roof must be structurally sound for 25 years.

How to apply — the correct order

1. Register on pmsuryaghar.gov.in using mobile + consumer number.
2. Submit an application for the capacity you want (1–10 kW residential).
3. Wait for feasibility approval from your DISCOM (typically 7–15 days).
4. Choose a registered vendor from the portal — do not pay any vendor before this step.
5. Install the system. Vendor uploads plant details.
6. DISCOM inspects and installs the net meter.
7. Once commissioned, upload bank details. Subsidy lands in 30 days.

Realistic 2026 economics (3 kW system)

Typical turnkey cost: ₹1.65–1.95 lakh. After ₹78,000 central subsidy: ₹87,000–1.17 lakh net. Average generation: 12–14 units/day = 360–420 units/month. For a Delhi/Maharashtra household that previously paid ₹3,500–4,500/month, payback lands around 3–5 years. Panels carry a 25-year performance warranty.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Paying the vendor before DISCOM feasibility is approved.
• Sizing the system larger than your sanctioned load (it will be rejected).
• Using a non-empanelled vendor — you lose subsidy eligibility.
• Skipping the net-metering step — you'll export power for free.

Run your own numbers with our rooftop solar calculator — it accounts for state-wise tariffs, net-metering settlement, and realistic generation for your city.