What is PM – Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana? What are the benefits, subsidy structure and how you can avail it.

PM – Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana

PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is a government scheme that aims to provide free electricity to households in India. The scheme was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 15, 2024. Under the scheme, households will be provided with a subsidy to install solar panels on their roofs. The subsidy will cover up to 40% of the cost of the solar panels. The scheme is expected to benefit 1 crore households across India. It is estimated that the scheme will save the government Rs. 75,000 crore per year in electricity costs.

The benefits of the scheme include:
  1. Free electricity for households.
  2. Reduced electricity costs for the government.
  3. Increased use of renewable energy.
  4. Reduced carbon emissions.

What is the subsidy structure for residential households? 

Suitable Rooftop Solar Plant Capacity for households   

Average Monthly Electricity Consumption (units) Suitable Rooftop Solar Plant CapacitySubsidy Support
0-1501 – 2 kW Rs 30,000 to Rs 60,000/-
150-3002 – 3 kWRs 60,000 to Rs 78,000/-
>300 Above 3 kW Rs 78,000/-

How can i avail subsidy? 

Online Applications may be submitted on the National Portal at https://pmsuryaghar.gov.in

Register in the portal with the following stepwise procedure

Step 1

  • Select your State & Electricity Distribution Company
  • Enter your Electricity Consumer Number, Mobile Number & Email

Step 2

  • Login with Consumer Number & Mobile Number
  • Apply for the Rooftop Solar as per the form

Step 3

  • Once you get the feasibility approval, get the plant installed by any of the registered vendors in your DISCOM

Step 4

  • Once installation is completed , submit the plant details and apply for net meter

Step 5

  • Commissioning certificate will be generated from the portal, after installation of net meter and inspection by DISCOM

Step 6

  • Once you get the commissioning report. Submit the bank account details and a cancelled cheque through the portal. You will receive your subsidy in your bank account within 30 days.

Eligibility

    1. The household must be an Indian citizen.
    2. The household must own a house with a roof that is suitable for installing solar panels.
    3. The household must have a valid electricity connection.
    4. The household must not have availed any other subsidy for solar panels.

Documents required 

    1. Proof of identity.
    2. Proof of address.
    3. Electricity bill.
    4. Roof ownership certificate.

How financing your rooftop solar installation will pay for itself ?

Let's revisit Mr. Patel's scenario for financing his rooftop solar installation and how it can pay for itself over time:

Mr. Patel's Scenario:

  • Location: Gwalior, India
  • Solar Panel System Size: 5 kW
  • Installation Cost: INR 2,85,000 (including subsidy)
  • Annual Electricity Consumption: 10,000 kWh
  • Average Electricity Tariff Rate: INR 8 per kWh

Financing Options:

  • Upfront Payment:
    • Mr. Patel decides to pay the full installation cost of INR 2,85,000 upfront.

  • Loan Financing:

    • Mr. Patel opts for a solar loan with a fixed interest rate over a certain term (let's assume 5 years) to cover the installation cost.

Calculations:

1. Upfront Payment:

  • Mr. Patel pays INR 2,85,000 upfront for the solar panel installation.
  • Over the years, he saves on electricity bills due to solar energy generation.

2. Loan Financing:

  • Let's assume Mr. Patel secures a loan for the full installation cost of INR 2,85,000 at an interest rate of 8% per annum for 5 years.

Monthly Loan Payment:

  • Using a loan calculator, the monthly loan payment for a 5-year term at 8% interest rate is approximately INR 5,818.

Electricity Savings:

  • With a 5 kW solar panel system, Mr. Patel can generate approximately 9,125 kWh of electricity annually.

Annual Electricity Savings:

  • Mr. Patel's annual electricity bill savings can be calculated based on the electricity tariff rate of INR 8 per kWh and the annual solar energy generation.
  • Annual Electricity Savings = 9,125 kWh/year × INR 8/kWh = INR 73,000.

Analysis:

1. Upfront Payment:

  • Mr. Patel pays INR 2,85,000 upfront for the solar installation.
  • Over the years, he enjoys electricity bill savings of INR 73,000 annually.
  • Therefore, Mr. Patel's rooftop solar installation will pay for itself in approximately 3.9 years (2,85,000 / 73,000).

2. Loan Financing:

  • Mr. Patel makes monthly loan payments of INR 5,818 for 5 years, totaling INR 3,49,080 over the loan term.
  • Additionally, he saves INR 73,000 annually on electricity bills.
  • Despite the loan payments, Mr. Patel still experiences net savings on his electricity bills.
  • Mr. Patel's rooftop solar installation will pay for itself during the loan term, and he continues to benefit from electricity bill savings beyond that.

Conclusion:

  • Financing a rooftop solar installation can pay for itself over time through electricity bill savings.
  • Whether paying upfront or through loan financing, Mr. Patel benefits from reduced electricity expenses and eventually achieves a return on his investment.
  • Investing in solar energy not only contributes to sustainability but also offers financial benefits in the long run.

How can i contribute to fight against global warming by opting for rooftop solar system? Demonstrate.

Opting for a rooftop solar system is an impactful way to contribute to the fight against global warming and reduce your carbon footprint. Here's how you can contribute:

  • Reducing Carbon Emissions: The average household in the United States consumes approximately 10,972 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per year, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). By installing a rooftop solar system, which can typically generate around 1,200 kWh to 1,500 kWh per year per kilowatt of installed capacity, you can offset a significant portion of your household's electricity consumption with clean, renewable energy. For example, a 5-kilowatt (kW) rooftop solar system could offset around 6,000 to 7,500 kWh of electricity consumption annually, reducing carbon emissions associated with fossil fuel-based electricity generation.

  • Promoting Renewable Energy Adoption: As of 2021, solar energy accounted for approximately 2.3% of total electricity generation in the United States, according to the EIA. By choosing to install a rooftop solar system, you contribute to the growth of solar energy adoption and help diversify the nation's energy mix with clean, sustainable alternatives. With more households and businesses embracing solar power, the share of renewable energy in the electricity sector continues to increase, driving investments in solar infrastructure, technology innovation, and job creation in the renewable energy industry.

  • Mitigating Climate Change Impacts: The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) estimates that global greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced by 45% from 2010 levels by 2030 and reach net-zero emissions by 2050 to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. By reducing your household's carbon footprint through rooftop solar and other energy-saving measures, you contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change and safeguard the planet's ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health from the adverse impacts of rising temperatures and extreme weather events.

  • Building Energy Independence: In the United States, residential electricity prices average around 13.31 cents per kWh, according to the EIA. By generating your own electricity from rooftop solar panels, which typically have a lifespan of 25 years or more, you can hedge against future electricity price volatility and reduce dependence on centralized power grids and fossil fuel-based electricity providers. Rooftop solar systems enhance energy security, resilience, and self-sufficiency, empowering households to withstand grid outages, natural disasters, and disruptions in energy supply chains.

  • Financial Savings and Long-Term Benefits: The cost of installing a residential rooftop solar system varies depending on factors such as system size, location, incentives, and installation costs. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the average cost of a residential solar system in the United States ranges from $2.81 to $3.57 per watt before incentives. With incentives such as the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) and state-level rebates and incentives, homeowners can significantly reduce the upfront cost of solar installation and achieve financial savings over the system's lifetime through lower electricity bills and potential revenue from excess solar energy exports to the grid.

By considering these numbers, homeowners can make informed decisions about the environmental, economic, and social benefits of investing in rooftop solar and contribute to the transition to a more sustainable energy future.

What is carbon footprint and its implication on sustainability?

What is carbon footprint?

The carbon footprint is a measure of the total amount of greenhouse gases, specifically carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases such as methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and fluorinated gases, emitted directly or indirectly by human activities. These activities include burning fossil fuels for electricity, transportation, heating, manufacturing, and other purposes.

The implication of carbon footprint on sustainability is significant and multifaceted:

Climate Change: The primary implication of carbon footprint is its contribution to climate change. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to global warming and climate disruptions. Increased carbon emissions from human activities have resulted in rising temperatures, melting glaciers, changing weather patterns, more frequent extreme weather events, and other adverse impacts on ecosystems and human societies.

Environmental Degradation: Carbon emissions not only contribute to climate change but also have direct environmental consequences. Pollution from fossil fuel combustion and industrial processes can degrade air quality, harm ecosystems, and endanger wildlife. Acid rain, smog, and air pollutants emitted from vehicles and industrial facilities are examples of environmental impacts associated with carbon emissions.

Resource Depletion: Fossil fuels, which are major contributors to carbon emissions, are finite resources that require extraction and processing. The extraction of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, can lead to habitat destruction, deforestation, water pollution, and other forms of environmental degradation. Moreover, the depletion of fossil fuel reserves poses challenges to energy security and economic stability in the long term.

Health Risks: Exposure to air pollution and environmental contaminants associated with carbon emissions can pose significant health risks to human populations. Respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, neurological disorders, and other health issues are linked to air pollution from carbon-emitting sources. Vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly susceptible to the adverse health effects of carbon emissions.

Economic Impacts: The implications of carbon footprint extend to the economy, affecting industries, businesses, and communities worldwide. Climate-related disasters, regulatory interventions, carbon pricing mechanisms, and shifts in consumer preferences towards sustainable products and services can influence market dynamics, investment decisions, and economic growth trajectories.

Addressing the carbon footprint and mitigating its impacts are central to sustainability efforts aimed at safeguarding the environment, protecting human health, fostering economic prosperity, and ensuring social equity. Strategies to reduce carbon emissions include transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, implementing sustainable transportation solutions, promoting low-carbon technologies, adopting climate-smart agricultural practices, and engaging in carbon offsetting initiatives. By adopting holistic and integrated approaches to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable development, societies can mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and create a more resilient and sustainable future.

Who are the leading manufacturers and suppliers of solar panels in India?

India's solar energy sector is bolstered by a multitude of manufacturers and suppliers offering diverse solar panels and solutions to meet the country's growing demand for renewable energy. Here are some key players in the Indian solar panel industry:

  • Adani Solar:

    • Annual production capacity: Over 1.3 gigawatts (GW).
    • Manufacturing facilities: Mundra (Gujarat) and Kutch (Gujarat).
    • Product range: Monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels, rooftop solar solutions, and utility-scale solar projects.

  • Tata Power Solar:

    • Annual production capacity: More than 1.1 GW.
    • Manufacturing facilities: Bengaluru (Karnataka).
    • Product range: Solar panels, solar cells, solar inverters, solar water pumps, and solar street lights.

  • Vikram Solar:

    • Annual production capacity: Around 1 GW.
    • Manufacturing facilities: Kolkata (West Bengal) and Falta (West Bengal).
    • Product range: Monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels, solar modules, and solar EPC services.

  • Waaree Energies:

    • Annual production capacity: Over 1.5 GW.
    • Manufacturing facilities: Surat (Gujarat) and Umbergaon (Gujarat).
    • Product range: Solar panels, solar modules, solar inverters, and solar water heaters.

  • Jakson Group:

    • Annual production capacity: More than 500 megawatts (MW).
    • Manufacturing facilities: Greater Noida (Uttar Pradesh) and Himachal Pradesh.
    • Product range: Solar panels, solar inverters, solar pumps, and solar street lights.

  • RenewSys:

    • Annual production capacity: Over 1.2 GW for solar modules.
    • Manufacturing facilities: Hyderabad (Telangana) and Bengaluru (Karnataka).
    • Product range: Solar panels, solar modules, solar cells, and solar encapsulants.

Goldi Solar:

    • Annual production capacity: Around 500 MW.
    • Manufacturing facilities: Surat (Gujarat).
    • Product range: Monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

These companies contribute significantly to India's solar power capacity expansion and play a vital role in advancing the country's renewable energy goals. With increasing investments, technological advancements, and supportive government policies, the Indian solar panel industry continues to thrive, driving the nation towards a sustainable energy future.

where does Madhya Pradesh stand in solar power generation in India?

Madhya Pradesh (MP) stands as a beacon of solar power generation in India, with impressive figures driving its renewable energy agenda forward.

Installed Capacity:

Madhya Pradesh has witnessed a substantial increase in its solar power generation capacity. As of July, 2023, the state boasts a cumulative installed capacity of over 4,000 megawatts (MW) of solar energy.

2. Solar Parks:

The establishment of solar parks has been pivotal in Madhya Pradesh's solar energy development. The Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Park, one of the state's flagship projects, spans over 1,500 hectares and has an installed capacity of 750 MW. Notably, the park achieved a record-low solar tariff of INR 2.97 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) during its auction, making it a benchmark for solar projects nationwide.

3. Government Initiatives:

The Government of Madhya Pradesh has introduced proactive initiatives to accelerate solar power adoption. Through various schemes and incentives, including subsidies and concessional land allocation, the state has attracted significant investment in solar projects. Additionally, the state offers a favorable policy environment and streamlined approval processes for solar power developers.

4. Renewable Energy Targets:

Madhya Pradesh has set ambitious renewable energy targets, aiming to achieve 12,000 MW of installed renewable energy capacity by 2022, with a significant proportion coming from solar power projects. The state's renewable energy policy framework prioritizes sustainable development and aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

5. Investment and Employment Opportunities:

The expansion of solar power infrastructure in Madhya Pradesh has unlocked substantial investment opportunities and generated employment across the value chain. Solar projects in the state have attracted investments worth billions of rupees and have created thousands of direct and indirect job opportunities in manufacturing, construction, operations, and maintenance.

6. Challenges and Opportunities:

Madhya Pradesh faces challenges in land acquisition, grid infrastructure development, and regulatory frameworks. However, these challenges present opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and capacity-building initiatives to overcome barriers and accelerate the transition to a sustainable energy future.

Conclusion:

Madhya Pradesh's strategic focus on solar power underscores its commitment to renewable energy transition. With its vast solar potential and conducive policy environment, the state is poised to play a pivotal role in India's renewable energy landscape, driving economic growth, environmental sustainability, and energy security for its citizens.

For detailed solar energy/ renewable energy visit: https://eninrac.com/assets/upload/Solar_Energy_Profile_of_MP.pdf 

Nearly 70.1 GW Solar Power Capacity Installed in the Country, know more.

Use and effectiveness of solar pumps in India: cost, efficiency, installation and maintenance aspects.

Solar pumps have become increasingly popular in India, particularly in rural and agricultural areas, where access to reliable electricity and water supply can be limited. Here's a comparison of the use and effectiveness of solar pumps in India, focusing on cost, efficiency, installation, and maintenance aspects:

Cost:

  • Initial Investment: The initial cost of installing a solar pump system is higher compared to traditional diesel or electric pump systems. However, the cost of solar panels and associated components has been decreasing in recent years, making solar pumps more affordable and cost-effective over the long term.

  • Operating Costs: Once installed, solar pumps have minimal operating costs since they rely on solar energy, which is free and abundant. This contrasts with diesel pumps, which require ongoing fuel purchases, and electric pumps, which are subject to fluctuating electricity tariffs.

Efficiency:

  • Solar Energy Utilization: Solar pumps harness solar energy to pump water from underground sources, such as borewells or wells. They convert sunlight directly into electricity, making them highly efficient and environmentally friendly compared to conventional pump systems.

  • Variable Pumping Capacities: Solar pumps come in various sizes and capacities to meet different water pumping requirements. They can be configured with variable speed drives and controllers to optimize energy usage and adapt to fluctuating water demand.

Installation:

  • Site Assessment: Proper site assessment is crucial for determining the suitability of solar pumps and optimizing their performance. Factors such as solar irradiance, water source depth, water demand, and available space for solar panel installation need to be considered during the planning phase.

  • Technical Expertise: Installation of solar pumps requires technical expertise in solar energy systems and water pumping mechanisms. Qualified installers and technicians ensure that the system is installed correctly, optimizing its performance and longevity.

Maintenance:

  • Low Maintenance Requirements: Solar pumps have relatively low maintenance requirements compared to diesel or electric pumps. They have fewer moving parts and are less susceptible to mechanical wear and tear. Routine maintenance tasks typically include cleaning solar panels, inspecting electrical connections, and monitoring pump performance.

  • Component Lifespan: The lifespan of solar pump components, including solar panels, inverters, and pump motors, can vary depending on their quality and usage conditions. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of worn-out components help prolong the system's lifespan and ensure reliable operation.

Conclusion:

Solar pumps offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution for water pumping in India, particularly in remote and off-grid areas. While they require a higher initial investment compared to conventional pump systems, solar pumps offer long-term benefits in terms of reduced operating costs, energy independence, and environmental sustainability.

Efficient utilization of solar energy, coupled with proper installation and maintenance practices, enhances the effectiveness and reliability of solar pump systems. As technology advances and costs continue to decline, solar pumps are expected to play an increasingly significant role in addressing water access challenges and promoting agricultural sustainability in India.

What are the different mounting systems for rooftop solar systems, is it damaging to the roof?

There are several types of mounting systems used for rooftop solar installations, each with its own characteristics and suitability for different roof types and conditions. The most common mounting systems include:

  • Railed Mounting Systems: Railed mounting systems consist of aluminum rails that are attached to the roof structure using lag bolts or roof attachments. Solar panels are then mounted onto the rails using clamps. Railed systems are versatile and can be adjusted to accommodate various roof angles and orientations.

  • Rail-less Mounting Systems: Rail-less mounting systems eliminate the need for aluminum rails by attaching solar panels directly to mounting feet that are anchored to the roof. This design reduces material costs and simplifies installation, but it may be less adjustable than railed systems.

  • Ballasted Mounting Systems: Ballasted mounting systems are commonly used for flat roofs where penetrating the roof membrane is not desirable. These systems rely on weighted ballasts to hold the solar panels in place, reducing the need for roof penetrations. Ballasted systems are relatively easy to install and can be removed without causing damage to the roof.

  • Tile Roof Mounting Systems: Tile roof mounting systems are specifically designed for roofs with clay or concrete tiles. These systems use brackets and hooks that are compatible with the shape and dimensions of the roof tiles, allowing for secure attachment of solar panels without compromising the integrity of the roof.

  • Low-profile Mounting Systems: Low-profile mounting systems are designed to minimize the height of the solar array above the roof surface. These systems are ideal for aesthetics-conscious homeowners or situations where space is limited.

Regarding potential damage to the roof, proper installation by trained professionals minimizes the risk of roof damage during and after the installation process. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

  • Roof Penetrations: Most mounting systems require roof penetrations to secure the solar panels in place. When installed correctly and sealed properly, these penetrations should not cause leaks or damage to the roof.

  • Weight Load: Solar panels add additional weight to the roof structure, which must be accounted for during installation. The mounting system should be designed to distribute the weight evenly and prevent undue stress on specific areas of the roof.

  • Proper Installation: Hiring reputable and experienced solar installers ensures that the mounting system is installed correctly and in accordance with manufacturer specifications and local building codes. Improper installation can lead to roof damage and void warranties.

In summary, while rooftop solar installations involve some level of penetration and added weight, proper installation techniques and suitable mounting systems help mitigate the risk of damage to the roof. Homeowners should work with professional installers who can assess their roof's condition and recommend the most appropriate mounting system for their specific needs.

Is there any perticular angle of solar penal orientation during installation.

Understanding Solar Panel Orientation: Finding the Optimal Angle

Solar panel orientation plays a crucial role in maximizing energy production and optimizing the performance of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. The angle at which solar panels are installed determines their exposure to sunlight throughout the day and across different seasons. Finding the optimal angle involves considering factors such as geographic location, seasonal variations, and energy production goals.

Factors Influencing Solar Panel Orientation:

  • Geographic Location: The latitude of the installation site is a key factor in determining the optimal angle for solar panel orientation. Locations closer to the equator receive more direct sunlight year-round, while regions farther from the equator experience greater variations in the sun's angle throughout the year.

  • Sun Path and Seasonal Variations: The sun's path across the sky changes with the seasons due to the tilt of the Earth's axis. In the northern hemisphere, the sun is higher in the sky during the summer months and lower during the winter months. Understanding these seasonal variations helps determine the ideal angle for solar panel orientation.

  • Shading and Obstructions: Shading from nearby buildings, trees, or other obstructions can reduce the efficiency of solar panels. It's essential to consider potential shading patterns when determining the orientation and placement of solar panels to minimize shading effects.

Optimal Angle for Solar Panel Orientation:

  • Fixed Tilt Angle: In general, the optimal tilt angle for fixed solar panel installations is approximately equal to the geographic latitude of the location. For example, in regions near the equator, where the sun's angle is higher throughout the year, a tilt angle close to the latitude may be suitable for maximizing energy production.

  • Seasonal Adjustments: While a fixed tilt angle based on latitude provides a good starting point, seasonal adjustments can further optimize solar panel orientation. In some cases, tilting solar panels at a slightly steeper angle during the winter months can capture more sunlight when the sun is lower in the sky, while adjusting to a shallower angle in the summer months helps prevent overheating and improves airflow around the panels.

  • Tracking Systems: Solar tracking systems, which adjust the orientation of solar panels to track the sun's movement throughout the day, can maximize energy production by ensuring panels are always facing the sun directly. While tracking systems are more complex and expensive than fixed installations, they can significantly increase energy output, especially in locations with high solar irradiance.

Conclusion:

Finding the optimal angle for solar panel orientation involves balancing various factors, including geographic location, seasonal variations, shading, and energy production goals. While a fixed tilt angle based on latitude provides a good starting point, adjustments may be necessary to account for specific site conditions and maximize the efficiency of solar PV systems. Consulting with solar energy professionals and utilizing solar modeling tools can help determine the most suitable orientation for solar panels based on individual requirements and local conditions.

How effective are solar water heater and are they preferable over rooftop solar energy systems?

Solar water heaters are effective and environmentally friendly solutions for heating water using solar energy. They are particularly well-suited for applications where hot water is a significant portion of energy consumption, such as in residential homes, hotels, hospitals, and commercial buildings. Here are some key points to consider regarding solar water heaters:

  • Effectiveness: Solar water heaters can effectively harness solar energy to heat water for various domestic and commercial purposes, including bathing, laundry, dishwashing, and space heating. They typically consist of solar collectors, storage tanks, and circulation systems that transfer heat from the collectors to the water.

  • Energy Savings: Solar water heaters can significantly reduce energy bills by utilizing free and abundant solar energy to heat water. Depending on the climate and usage patterns, solar water heaters can meet a substantial portion of a household's hot water needs, thereby reducing reliance on conventional water heating methods powered by electricity or gas.

  • Environmental Benefits: Solar water heaters help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, making them environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional water heating systems. By utilizing renewable solar energy, they contribute to mitigating climate change and promoting sustainability.

  • System Types: Solar water heaters come in various types, including active (pumped) systems and passive (thermosiphon) systems. Active systems use pumps to circulate water between the solar collectors and storage tank, while passive systems rely on natural convection to circulate water. The choice between active and passive systems depends on factors such as climate, system size, and installation preferences.

  • Lifecycle Costs and Maintenance: While solar water heaters require an upfront investment for installation, they typically have lower lifecycle costs compared to conventional water heating systems. With proper maintenance and occasional servicing, solar water heaters can provide reliable hot water for many years.

Regarding preference over rooftop solar energy systems, it's essential to recognize that solar water heaters and rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems serve different purposes and can complement each other in energy efficiency strategies:

  • Solar water heaters primarily focus on heating water for domestic and commercial use, while rooftop solar PV systems generate electricity to power various electrical appliances and lighting systems.
  • The choice between solar water heaters and rooftop solar PV systems depends on individual energy needs, budget considerations, and available roof space. In some cases, homeowners may opt for both systems to maximize energy savings and reduce reliance on grid-based energy sources.

In summary, solar water heaters are effective, energy-efficient solutions for heating water using solar energy. While they serve a specific purpose, they can be integrated with rooftop solar PV systems to create comprehensive renewable energy solutions tailored to individual needs and preferences.