Is there a government scheme for free solar panels in India?

Yes, and not just one. There are multiple schemes that will help you save electricity and reduce dependency on the grid. You can even earn money by giving excess power back. If you're thinking about installing solar panels at home, on your farm, or in your community, it's important to know what the government solar panel scheme options are in India. 

Here are the top 7 of them. Chaliye simple bhaasha mein samjhte hain.

1. PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (2024)

• New scheme launched in 2024 by the Central Government.
• Offers up to ₹78,000 subsidy for rooftop solar installation.
• Get up to 300 units/month free electricity.
• Meant for 1 crore households across India.
• Useful for middle and lower-income families with rooftops.
• Portal: https://pmsuryaghar.gov.in

This scheme is one of the most helpful solar initiatives for residential homes. If you're looking for PM Surya Ghar Yojana details, check out our video guide explaining it.

2. Rooftop Solar Programme Phase II (MNRE)

• Managed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
• Launched in 2019 and still active.
• Subsidy up to 40% for rooftop systems up to 3 kW.
• Direct benefit is transferred to your bank account.
• Targets individual homes and housing societies.
• Apply through local DISCOM or https://solarrooftop.gov.in

3. Kusum Yojana (For Farmers)

• First launched in 2019, it's still active with updates.
• Helps farmers install solar pumps and decentralized plants.
• Offers 60-70% subsidy (combined state + central share).
• Has three parts: solarize existing pumps, install new ones, or create small solar plants.
• Best for farmers in remote or heavy irrigation areas.
• Details: https://mnre.gov.in

4. Gujarat – Surya Urja Rooftop Yojana

• One of the most active state-level government solar panel schemes.
• Offers subsidy of ₹40,000 to ₹50,000 depending on installation size.
• Perfect for residential users in Gujarat.
• Apply via https://suryagujarat.guvnl.in

From free training to small business help, these government schemes for housewives could change someone’s life. Read now!

5. Delhi – Mukhyamantri Solar Power Scheme

• For solar installations on government buildings and schools.
• Also supports group housing societies.
• Saves monthly power bills and adds to Delhi’s green goals.
• You can check updates through the Delhi Solar Portal or state DISCOM.

6. Maharashtra – Solar Agricultural Pump Scheme

• Known as Chief Minister Solar Agricultural Pump Scheme.
• Offers subsidized solar water pumps for irrigation.
• Useful in areas where grid electricity is unreliable.
• Implemented through MAHADISCOM.
• More info: https://www.mahadiscom.in

7. Rajasthan – State Solar Energy Policy

• Focused on both rooftop and utility-scale solar parks.
• Encourages people to shift to solar for household needs.
• Subsidies can change based on capacity and project.
• Regular updates on https://energy.rajasthan.gov.in

Why These Government Solar Panel Schemes Matter for You

• Help reduce your electricity bill by 60–90%
• Get back your investment in 4–5 years
• Make use of government support, instead of paying full price
• Promote clean, renewable energy at local level

Even if you're not fully switching to solar, these schemes are a big help in cutting down electricity costs. You may be living in a city flat or a village home, but there's probably a solar scheme that fits your situation.

These solar subsidies are designed to support everyday families like yours who want to make a smart move toward sustainable living. Thoda planning karein, aur sunlight ka full benefit lein. Toh agar rooftop khaali pada hai, use it wisely. Sunlight is free. So make the most of it.

Tax bachana chahte hain? Income tax kaise bachaye yeh samajhna aapke liye helpful ho sakta hai. Read our blog on it so that you don’t pay more than what’s necessary. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1) How do I claim solar subsidy?

You can claim the subsidy through the official portals like pmsuryaghar.gov.in or your state DISCOM site. Subsidy is credited to your bank account after installation.

Q2) Who is eligible for PM solar Yojana?

Any residential household in India with their own rooftop and electricity connection can apply. Priority is given to lower and middle-income families.

Q3) How much does a 1 kW solar panel cost?

Without subsidy, it costs around ₹60,000 to ₹70,000. After subsidy, it may cost you just ₹30,000 to ₹35,000.

Q4) How to get free solar panels from the government in India?

Panels aren’t fully free. But with schemes like PM Surya Ghar, subsidy covers 60–90% of the cost, which makes them very affordable.