Are you tired of paying high electricity bills every two months? The Government of India's ambitious PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana has arrived in Kerala, promising free electricity for up to 300 units and huge subsidies for rooftop solar installations.
For KSEB consumers, this is a golden opportunity. By switching to solar, you not only reduce your bill to zero but can also earn money by selling excess power back to KSEB through Net Metering.
In this guide, we will decode the subsidy amounts, the application process through the National Portal for Rooftop Solar, and how to calculate your potential savings.
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Open Solar Calculator1. What is PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana?
Launched to promote green energy, this scheme aims to light up 1 crore households across India. Under this scheme, the central government provides a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) subsidy directly to the consumer's bank account after the solar plant is installed.
For Kerala residents, KSEB acts as the implementation partner, facilitating the grid connection and net meter installation.
2. Solar Subsidy Structure 2026 (Updated)
The subsidy amount depends on the capacity of the solar plant you install. Here is the latest breakdown applicable for domestic consumers:
| Plant Capacity | Central Subsidy (Approx) | Effective Cost (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 kW | ₹30,000 | ₹20,000 - ₹25,000 |
| 2 kW | ₹60,000 | ₹40,000 - ₹50,000 |
| 3 kW (Recommended) | ₹78,000 | ₹60,000 - ₹70,000 |
| Above 3 kW | Fixed ₹78,000 | Varies |
Note: The 3kW system is considered the "Sweet Spot" as it provides the maximum subsidy benefit.
3. How KSEB Net Metering Works?
Understanding "Net Metering" is crucial. When you install an On-Grid Solar System, your home remains connected to the KSEB lines.
🔄 Import vs Export Logic
- Import: The electricity you take from KSEB (e.g., at night when the sun is down).
- Export: The excess electricity your solar panels generate during the day, which goes back to the KSEB grid.
- Net Bill: You pay only for (Import - Export). If Export is higher, you pay ₹0, and the extra units are "Banked".
4. Eligibility for Subsidy in Kerala
To avail the benefits of the PM Surya Ghar Yojana in Kerala, you must meet the following criteria:
- Must be an Indian citizen owning a house in Kerala.
- Must have a valid electricity connection with KSEB (Domestic Tariff).
- The roof must have sufficient shadow-free space (approx. 100 sq. ft. per 1kW).
- You must not have availed any previous solar subsidy for the same address.
5. How to Apply Online (Step-by-Step)
The application process is fully digital. Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Registration
Visit the official portal pmsuryaghar.gov.in. Register using your mobile number and select 'Kerala' as the state and 'KSEB' as the distribution company. You will need your KSEB Consumer Number.
Step 2: Feasibility Approval
Once registered, apply for rooftop solar. KSEB officials will review your application for technical feasibility (checking transformer load capacity). Approval usually takes 3-7 days.
Step 3: Installation
After approval, choose a registered vendor from the portal's list. Do not install panels through unlisted vendors, or you will lose the subsidy.
Step 4: Net Meter Installation
Once installation is complete, apply for a net meter. KSEB officials will inspect the plant and install the bi-directional meter.
Step 5: Subsidy Release
After the plant is commissioned, upload the commissioning certificate and a cancelled cheque on the portal. The subsidy will be credited to your bank account within 30 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You need approximately 300 to 350 square feet of shadow-free rooftop area for a 3kW system.
Yes, a 3kW system generates about 12-14 units per day. This is sufficient to run a 1.5-ton AC for 4-5 hours along with other lights and fans.
Yes, KSEB settles the accounts annually. If you have excess banked units at the end of the settlement period (usually September), KSEB pays you at a predetermined rate (approx ₹2.69 - ₹3.00 per unit).
Conclusion
With rising tariff rates, the PM Surya Ghar Yojana is the best financial decision a Kerala household can make in 2026. The Return on Investment (ROI) is typically 3-4 years, after which you enjoy free electricity for the next 20 years.