Rising power bills are pushing many households to look at rooftop solar. The main barrier is often the upfront cost. Tata Power has started the ‘Ghar Ghar Solar’ campaign in Patna, Bihar, with a plan that may let eligible home users install a rooftop solar system with a starting down payment of ₹999.
The company aims to take rooftop solar to 5 lakh homes across Bihar over three years. Under the reported plan, domestic users can get up to 100% financing and repay the cost through easy monthly instalments for 60 months. This means the full system cost may not need to be paid at the time of installation.
How the ₹999 rooftop solar plan works
The offer covers rooftop solar systems from 1 kW to 10 kW. The customer pays the starting amount of ₹999, while the remaining cost is covered through finance, subject to approval and the terms set by the finance provider.
For a 1 kW system, the estimated EMI after subsidy is around ₹932 per month for 60 months. For a 3 kW system, the reported EMI is around ₹2,907 per month for the same period. These figures are estimates. The final EMI can change based on the system price, subsidy, interest rate, processing charges, loan approval and other terms.
A five-year EMI may make solar easier to access for families that cannot pay a large amount at once. Still, it is important to compare the total repayment with the cash price before signing the loan papers. A low starting payment does not mean the system is free. Your calculator may deserve a small cup of tea before you decide.
Government subsidy can reduce the cost
Rooftop solar buyers may also qualify for support under the central government’s PM Surya Ghar scheme. The subsidy depends on the system capacity and the rules in force when the application is processed. The source information states that a 1 kW system may receive central support of up to ₹30,000.
Bihar may also provide additional support under its own rules. The amount, eligibility and payment process can change, so buyers should check the latest details on the official government portal and with an authorised Tata Power representative.
A 1 kW rooftop solar system may cost around ₹60,000 to ₹75,000 before subsidy, based on the figures in the reported plan. The final price can include panels, inverter, mounting structure, wiring, installation and other work. Ask for a written quote that shows the gross price, subsidy, loan amount, interest, EMI and total repayment.
Choose the system size based on your home use
The right solar capacity depends on your monthly power use, roof space and the appliances you want to run. Check your recent electricity bills before choosing a system.
- 1 kW: This may suit a small home that uses a few fans, LED lights, a television and other small devices.
- 2 kW: This may work for a home with more fans and lights, a cooler and a small water pump.
- 3 kW: This may suit a home that uses a fridge, mixer, water motor and an inverter air conditioner of up to about 1 ton.
These are simple guides, not fixed rules. Solar output also depends on sunlight, shade, panel direction and roof condition. A technician should check the site before installation. A large system on a shaded roof is not a smart use of money.
What to check before applying
- Keep a recent electricity bill and identity documents ready.
- Check whether your electricity connection and roof meet the scheme rules.
- Ask if the quote includes installation, GST, wiring, protection devices and maintenance.
- Confirm the process for subsidy approval and when the subsidy will be adjusted.
- Read the finance agreement. Check the interest rate, processing fee, late fee, insurance and prepayment rules.
- Ask about net metering and how extra solar power will be handled by the local electricity company.
- Use only official Tata Power channels or authorised partners. Do not share bank details or pay a fee to an unknown agent.
Solar output and maintenance
Solar panels produce power during the day, with output changing by season and weather. Homes may still need grid power at night or during periods of low sunlight. A rooftop system also needs a clear roof, safe wiring and regular cleaning, especially in dusty areas.
Before installation, ask about the panel and inverter warranty, service visits, repair support and expected generation. Also confirm whether the system includes a battery. A standard grid-connected rooftop system may not provide backup power during a grid outage unless it has suitable backup equipment.
Residents in Bihar can compare their monthly bill, estimated solar generation, subsidy, EMI and total loan cost. These details will help them decide whether the ₹999 down payment plan fits their home and budget.
