Problem: Solar Panel Output Suddenly Dropped

Possible Causes: Dust accumulation, bird droppings, shading from new construction, cable connection loosened, inverter fault, hot spot formation on panels

Solutions: Clean panels thoroughly with water and soft cloth. Check for new obstructions causing shade. Inspect all cable connections for looseness. Verify inverter display for error codes. Use thermal camera to detect hot spots indicating cell damage. Compare current output with historical data from same month previous year.

Problem: Inverter Showing Red Light or Error Code

Possible Causes: Grid voltage out of range (170-270V), grid frequency deviation, DC input voltage too low, over temperature protection, internal component failure

Solutions: Check grid voltage with multimeter. Wait for grid stabilization if voltage fluctuating. Clean inverter cooling fins and ensure proper ventilation. Reset inverter by switching off DC and AC isolators for 5 minutes. Note error code and contact service center if persists. Most inverters have error code manual explaining specific issues.

Problem: System Not Generating Despite Bright Sunlight

Possible Causes: Inverter switched off, circuit breaker tripped, fuse blown, cable disconnected, inverter reached end of life, DC isolator in off position

Solutions: Check all isolators and MCBs are in ON position. Inspect main DCDB and ACDB for any tripped breakers. Measure DC voltage at inverter input terminals should show 200-400V in daylight. Verify AC output connections to distribution board. If inverter display completely blank check its power supply.

Problem: Panels Underperforming in Winter Months

Possible Causes: Shorter daylight hours, lower sun angle, morning fog, dust buildup from dry season, tree shading during winter sun path

Solutions: This is normal behavior. Winter months generate 20-30 percent less than summer due to sun position and day length. Clean panels more frequently during dry dusty winter. Trim tree branches if causing new shade patterns. Budget for seasonal variation when sizing system. Annual generation matters more than monthly fluctuations.

Problem: Net Meter Not Recording Export Properly

Possible Causes: Meter programming error, CT orientation reversed, connection loose, meter reached maximum reading capacity, billing cycle confusion

Solutions: Verify meter spins backward during sunny afternoons when exporting. Check import and export readings separately on meter display. Contact DISCOM for meter inspection if readings seem stuck. Request meter accuracy test if you suspect malfunction. Keep daily generation log from inverter to cross verify with meter data.

Problem: Battery Not Holding Charge (Hybrid/Off-Grid)

Possible Causes: Battery aged beyond lifespan, sulfation in lead acid batteries, BMS fault in lithium, overcharging damage, deep discharge damage, electrolyte level low

Solutions: Test battery voltage under load and no load conditions. For lead acid check electrolyte specific gravity with hydrometer. Perform equalization charge if voltage imbalance between cells. Replace battery if capacity dropped below 60 percent of rated. For lithium check BMS error logs. Ensure charge controller settings match battery type.

Problem: Excessive Dust Reducing Performance

Possible Causes: Location near construction site, unpaved roads nearby, industrial pollution, bird infestation, pollen during spring

Solutions: Increase cleaning frequency to monthly or bi-weekly in dusty areas. Install anti bird netting if birds roosting on panels. Use deionized water for cleaning to avoid water marks. Consider robotic cleaning systems for large installations. Apply nano coating to reduce dust adhesion. Schedule cleaning early morning when panels cool for safety.

How much does a 5kW solar system cost in India?

A 5kW solar system costs ₹2,50,000 to ₹3,00,000 before subsidy. After applying the government subsidy of ₹72,000, the net cost comes to ₹1,78,000 to ₹2,28,000. This includes panels, inverter, mounting structure, installation, and net meter. The system generates approximately 600-750 units monthly reducing electricity bills by 85-90 percent.

What is the solar panel subsidy in 2025?

The MNRE provides ₹18,000 per kW for the first 3kW capacity and ₹9,000 per kW for additional capacity up to 10kW. Maximum subsidy is ₹78,000 for residential rooftop installations. The subsidy applies only to systems installed by MNRE empaneled vendors using ALMM listed panels and BIS certified components. Subsidy is directly transferred to the vendor account reducing your payable amount.

How many solar panels needed for 3kW system?

A 3kW system requires 6 to 8 solar panels depending on panel wattage. With 540W panels you need 6 panels while 375W panels require 8 units. The system needs approximately 300-350 square feet of shadow free roof space. A 3kW system generates 360-450 units monthly suitable for homes with 200-400 unit monthly consumption.

Is solar worth it if I have low electricity bills?

Solar remains worthwhile even for low bills. A household with ₹2000 monthly bills can install 2-3kW system costing ₹1,20,000 after subsidy. With ₹24,000 annual savings the payback period is 5 years. Post that you enjoy 20 years of nearly free electricity. Additionally solar protects against inevitable tariff increases averaging 8 percent annually and increases property value.

Can I run AC on solar panels during daytime?

Yes solar easily powers air conditioners during daytime. A 1.5 ton AC consumes 1500-2000W so a 3kW solar system can run one AC plus other appliances. A 5kW system comfortably handles 2 ACs simultaneously with remaining capacity for lights fans and refrigerator. Night AC usage requires battery backup in hybrid systems or draws from grid in on grid setups.

What happens to solar panels during power cuts?

On grid solar systems automatically shut down during power cuts for safety preventing back feeding to grid. This protects utility workers repairing lines. To have power during outages you need hybrid or off grid systems with battery backup. Hybrid systems cost 40-50 percent more but provide uninterrupted power switching seamlessly between solar battery and grid.

How long do solar panels last in Indian climate?

Quality solar panels last 25-30 years in Indian climate conditions. Panels come with 25 year performance warranty guaranteeing minimum 80 percent efficiency after 25 years. The degradation rate is 0.5 to 0.7 percent annually. Mounting structures last equally long while inverters need replacement after 10-12 years. With proper maintenance panels continue generating beyond warranty period.

Do solar panels work during monsoon season?

Solar panels continue working during monsoon generating 30-50 percent of peak capacity depending on cloud cover. Rainy days produce less but are not zero. Annual system sizing accounts for seasonal variation so reduced monsoon output is already factored into payback calculations. Additionally rain naturally cleans panels removing accumulated dust improving efficiency when sun returns.

What is net metering and how does it benefit me?

Net metering allows you to export excess solar generation to the electricity grid earning credits on your bill. A bidirectional meter tracks both import and export. During sunny afternoons when generation exceeds consumption surplus flows to grid. At night you draw from grid using accumulated credits. Most states compensate at 70-90 percent of retail tariff making it financially beneficial.

Which is better monocrystalline or polycrystalline panels?

Monocrystalline panels are better for most residential installations offering 19-23 percent efficiency versus 15-18 percent for polycrystalline. Monocrystalline panels cost 15-20 percent more but generate more power per square foot making them ideal for limited roof space. They also perform better in low light and high temperature conditions prevalent in India. The higher efficiency justifies the premium for most homeowners.

Can I install solar panels on a flat roof?

Yes solar panels work excellently on flat roofs. Installers use elevated mounting structures creating 10-15 degree tilt angle for optimal sun exposure and rain water drainage. Flat roofs actually offer more flexibility in panel orientation compared to sloped roofs. Weight bearing capacity should be verified as raised structures plus panels add 12-18 kg per square meter load.

How much roof area required for 10kW solar system?

A 10kW system requires 900-1200 square feet of unshaded roof space depending on panel efficiency. With 540W panels you need approximately 1000 square feet while 450W panels require 1150 square feet. The roof should be south facing with minimal shade from trees or nearby buildings. Flat roofs need slightly more area due to inter row spacing to prevent shading between panel rows.

What is ALMM and why is it important for subsidy?

ALMM stands for Approved List of Models and Manufacturers maintained by MNRE. Only solar panels listed on ALMM qualify for government subsidy. This ensures domestic manufacturing support and quality standards. Before purchasing verify your panels are ALMM listed. The list is updated quarterly and available on MNRE website. Using non ALMM panels makes you ineligible for ₹18,000-78,000 subsidy.

Is solar panel insurance necessary?

While not mandatory solar insurance is recommended costing ₹2000-5000 annually. It covers damage from natural calamities like storms hail lightning theft and fire. Panels have 25 year warranty for manufacturing defects but not physical damage. For ₹2-6 lakh investment insurance provides peace of mind. Most lenders require insurance if you take solar loan.

Can I get a loan for solar panel installation?

Yes multiple banks offer solar loans with attractive terms. Interest rates range from 9-12 percent with tenure up to 10 years. Some banks like SBI HDFC ICICI have dedicated solar loan products. Green loans offer 0.5-1 percent lower rates than regular home improvement loans. Many solar vendors have tie ups with NBFCs offering instant approval and minimal documentation. EMI typically lower than electricity bill savings.

Q: Should I install solar if I plan to sell my house in 5 years?

A: Yes install solar even if selling soon. Solar equipped homes sell 4-6 percent higher and 20 percent faster. You recover installation cost through increased property value plus enjoy 5 years of reduced bills. Buyers prefer move in ready homes with low operating costs. Market data shows 92 percent of home buyers willing to pay premium for solar homes.

Q: Can I run my entire house only on solar without grid?

A: Yes with properly sized off grid system with adequate battery backup. However off grid costs 80-120 percent more than on grid due to batteries. You need larger panel capacity to charge batteries and power loads simultaneously. Most experts recommend hybrid systems offering grid backup for cloudy week long periods preventing system oversizing and cost escalation.

Q: What happens if a panel breaks or stops working?

A: Panels have 10-12 year product warranty covering manufacturing defects. If a panel fails the manufacturer replaces it free. However panels are extremely durable with breakage rare except severe hail or falling objects. One failed panel in string reduces output by 5-8 percent not completely shutting down system. Always buy from reputed brands with strong warranty claim track record.

Q: Do I need permission from housing society for solar installation?

A: For independent houses no society permission needed just DISCOM approval. For apartments you need written NOC from society managing committee. Most societies support solar but verify maintenance access and common roof usage rules. Some societies have group installation policies offering bulk discounts. Check society bylaws before proceeding.

Q: How to choose between grid tie and hybrid solar system?

A: Choose based on power cut frequency. If your area has less than 1 hour daily cuts grid tie is economical with 3-4 year payback. For 2-6 hour daily cuts hybrid with partial battery backup is optimal. Only select full off grid if no grid connection or 8-12 hour daily outages. Hybrid costs 40 percent more but essential for uninterrupted power to critical loads.

Q: Can solar panels withstand hailstorms and cyclones?

A: Quality panels withstand 25mm hailstones at 80 kmph as per IEC testing standards. Tempered glass front is highly impact resistant. Mounting structures engineered for 150 kmph wind loads. However extreme weather like large hail or debris can cause damage. This is why solar insurance recommended in cyclone prone coastal regions. Proper installation with adequate anchoring critical for storm resistance.

Q: Is it worth adding more panels later to existing system?

A: Yes systems are modular allowing capacity addition. However ensure inverter can handle additional DC input. Adding 2-3 kW to existing 3kW requires inverter upgrade. New panels should match voltage characteristics of existing ones. Net metering capacity approval from DISCOM needed for capacity increase. Expansion often cheaper than initial per watt cost as civil work and approvals already done.

Q: What are peak sun hours and why do they matter?

A: Peak sun hours represent equivalent hours of 1000 W/m² solar irradiance. India averages 4.5-6 peak sun hours daily depending on location. A 1 kW system with 5 peak sun hours generates approximately 5 kWh or units daily. This varies seasonally with summer offering 20-30 percent more peak hours than winter. System sizing calculations use average annual peak hours for location.

Q: Can I monitor my solar system performance remotely?

A: Yes modern inverters include WiFi or GSM connectivity with smartphone apps. Apps show real time generation, daily monthly yearly energy data, system efficiency, and error alerts. Most apps free with inverter purchase. Monitoring helps identify performance issues immediately. Some systems offer web portals with historical data and performance analytics comparing actual versus expected output.

Q: What tax benefits available for residential solar installation?

A: Currently no specific income tax deduction for residential solar under Section 80C or others. Commercial installations claim accelerated depreciation under Section 32. However indirect benefits include 5 percent GST versus 18 percent standard rate. Some states offer property tax rebates for solar homes. Check annual budget announcements as government periodically introduces green energy incentives.

Q: How does temperature affect solar panel performance?

A: Solar panels lose 0.3-0.5 percent efficiency for every degree Celsius above 25°C. On 45°C summer days panels operate at 85-90 percent of rated capacity. This temperature coefficient varies by technology with monocrystalline performing better in heat than polycrystalline. Adequate ventilation under panels through raised mounting helps. Despite heat loss Indian solar still highly viable due to abundant sunshine.

Q: Can I use solar for water heating and electricity both?

A: Yes install both solar photovoltaic for electricity and solar thermal for water heating. They serve different purposes and don't interfere. However solar PV can also power electric water heaters or heat pumps. Allocate roof space for both prioritizing PV as it offers better ROI. Many homes install 3-5 kW solar PV plus 200 liter solar water heater for complete solar utilization.

Q: What is the difference between kilowatt and kilowatt hour?

A: Kilowatt (kW) is power capacity while kilowatt hour (kWh) is energy generated. A 5 kW system is the size producing maximum 5000 watts at any instant. If it runs 5 hours at full capacity it generates 25 kWh or units. Your electricity bill charges for kWh consumed. A 5 kW system typically generates 600-750 kWh monthly depending on sunlight availability.

Q: Do solar panels need to face south in India?

A: South facing is optimal in India providing maximum annual generation. However southeast or southwest orientation works with just 5-8 percent output reduction. East or west facing generates 15-20 percent less but still viable if south not available. North facing should be avoided as it receives minimal direct sunlight. Flat roofs offer flexibility to orient panels optimally regardless of building orientation.

Q: Is solar installation allowed in rented property?

A: Solar installation requires property owner permission and electricity connection in their name for subsidy. As tenant you can propose solar to landlord offering shared benefits like split savings or reduced rent. Landlord benefits from property value increase and can charge premium rent post installation. Get written agreement on ownership if you invest. Portable ground mount systems option for temporary installations.