Opinion – Emerging Trends In Residential Rooftop Solar: Real Indian Cases

Rooftop solar seemed to be something only large residences in metropolitan areas could consider a few years ago. The prices were exorbitant, the paperwork was difficult, and most families were unsure where to begin. However, by 2025, the scenario looks drastically different. From rural communities in Chhattisgarh to bustling suburbs in Delhi, families are discovering that solar is not only economical but also practical for everyday use.

What’s Changing on the Ground

The biggest shift has been subsidies. The PM Surya Ghar Yojana has cut upfront costs in a way that people can actually see on their bills. The new National Rooftop Solar Portal has also helped—families don’t need to make endless rounds at offices to get approvals or track subsidy claims.

Costs have come down steadily. A 5kW rooftop system now costs around ₹3–5 lakh, and with subsidies, the payback time has shortened a lot. For families spending a few thousand rupees every month on electricity, the math finally makes sense. On top of that, better panels and battery storage options are now available, letting people use solar power at night and during outages.

Homes Turning into Power Producers

One of the most interesting changes is how families are not just using solar but also selling electricity back to the grid. Net metering, which used to be a painful process, is now smoother. This means homes can cover their own needs and still earn a credit for the extra units they generate.

Some households have even started connecting their rooftop systems with electric vehicle chargers, turning their homes into self-sufficient energy hubs. For many, this feels like a big step toward independence from rising electricity costs.

Chhattisgarh’s Real Stories

Chhattisgarh has become a strong example of how subsidies can change adoption in smaller cities. Here, families receive ₹78,000 from the central scheme and up to ₹30,000 more from the state government.

Take the case of Anil Kumar Sahu from Dabhra (Sakti district). He installed a 3kW system with support from these subsidies. Today, his electricity bills have disappeared, and he earns a small income from selling surplus units back to the grid.

It isn’t just individual homes. Programs like Tata Power’s #GharGharSolar has already brought rooftop systems to more than 600 households in the state. At the same time, local regulators have cut unnecessary steps like feasibility studies for smaller systems, making installations faster.

Bills That Prove the Point

The change is visible when you look at monthly bills. In one Raipur home, rebates of more than ₹20,000 brought down the payable amount to just ₹2,210. Another household received a negative bill (-₹1,456), meaning the power company owed them. For middle-class families, these aren’t small wins—they make solar feel real and valuable.

The Local Push

Policies establish the framework, but local businesses make it happen. SRV Solar in Raipur is one such example. They’ve already helped over 100 households go solar by giving free surveys, coaching families through subsidy claims, and arranging EMI plans. Many families are saving up to ₹35,000 annually.

Looking ahead.

Rooftop solar in India is no longer about trials or early adoption. It has become a realistic choice for families looking to save money while still ensuring reliable power. With subsidies, improved technology, and local support, 2025 may be recognized as the year solar was securely integrated into everyday Indian households.

By Akanksha Ghilahare, Digital Marketer, SRV Solar