SPVRT Capacity Chart

How to determine capacity of Rooftop Solar Installation required for my house/ business?

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What capacity of rooftop solar you need to completely offset your daily electricity consumption?

We have tried to explain in simple terms, how the output of Solar Installation is calculated and produces a general guide to help consumers determine required capacity of rooftop solar for their home -

Centrally located Madhya Pradesh (MP) is the second largest (308.25 km2) and the sixth most populated Indian state (72 million as per Census, 2011). The average annual per capita power consumption of MP is 739 units against the Indian average of 1010 units (both 2015 values). The average annual per capita income was Rupees 56,182 against the Indian average of Rupees 103,219 in 2016–17. MP has high solar potential of 300 days of sunshine along with high solar insolation of 5.5 kWh/m2/day.

If you are an average middle class household in Madhya Pradesh then potentially your monthly electricity consumption is not more than 739 units i.e. 739kWh per month. 

Assuming your monthly electricity consumption is 750 kWh then you need to install about the same capacity of a solar power plant so that it completely offsets your entire energy consumption for the year. Now, as per statistical data, Madhya Pradesh receives about 300 days of sunshine in a year along with high solar insolation of 5.5kWh/m2/day. 

Let’s calculate the yearly consumption of your household i.e. 750 kWh per month X 12 month per year = 9000 kWh per year or 9000 units per year.

Assuming you have done your fair share of research and know about different types of solar PV Modules available in the market, you know that Monocrystalline PV Modules are high efficient modules used for domestic rooftop or small commercial rooftop systems. These modules have efficiency of 18-21 %. 

Let’s be conservative here and assume that the solar PV Modules are giving you an efficiency of 18% (which is a considerable underestimation for Monocrystalline PV Modules). 

Total energy that can be generated in a 

year per m2 of Solar Power Plant = 5.5 kWh/m2/day *300 clear days per year * efficiency

= 5.5 x 300 x 0.18

= 297 kWh/m2/year

Hence, total area that will be required to completely offset your energy consumption will be = 9000/297

= 30.30 m2

Hence, capacity of Rooftop Solar Plant = 1 kW/m2 x 30.30 m2 x 0.18 

= 5.45 kW

Conclusion: 

 If you are a middle class household with average electricity consumption, all you need to do is install a rooftop solar plant of 5.45 kW capacity to completely offset your energy consumption and boast of not contributing to global warming. 

To make your task easier, we have produced below a chart for determining the suitable capacity of a rooftop solar power plant/ installation for your home. Just read the value corresponding to your average monthly units of electricity consumption. It is advisable to determine the average electricity consumption by average last 12 month's electricity bills.

 

Solar in Gwalior - solarmeter a solar panel installation service

Note - Values produced below are reached after some reasonable assumptions and are derived for Madhya Pradesh, actual output may vary depending upon several factors such as location, efficiency of PV Modules, time of the year etc. It is always better to receive consultation from installation professionals.

To get free consultation from Solarmeter.in click here

Modhera Village: Official Partner Locals, Powered by the Sun.

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Modhera is India’s first solar-powered village

Modhera Village: Pioneering the Path to Sustainable Energy with Solar Power

Nestled in the heart of Gujarat, India, Modhera Village stands as a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the region. Renowned for its ancient sun temple and vibrant cultural traditions, Modhera offers visitors a captivating journey through time, where history, spirituality, and artistic brilliance converge with it's awe inspiringly modern approach to sustainability.

Modhera Village in Gujarat, India, has carved its name in history by becoming the first village in the country to be fully powered by solar energy. This remarkable achievement stands as a beacon of sustainable development, showcasing the village's commitment to environmental stewardship and energy independence.

The Vision for Renewable Energy:

The journey towards solar-powered sustainability began with a visionary initiative led by the local community and government authorities. Recognizing the abundant solar resources available in the region, Modhera Village embarked on a bold mission to harness clean and renewable energy to meet its electricity needs.

Implementation of Solar Infrastructure:

Central to the transformation of Modhera Village was the installation of state-of-the-art solar infrastructure. Rooftop solar panels were deployed across homes, community buildings, and public spaces, harnessing the power of the sun to generate electricity. These solar panels, equipped with advanced photovoltaic technology, efficiently convert sunlight into usable electrical energy, powering lights, appliances, and other essential services.

Community Participation and Empowerment:

Crucial to the success of the solar initiative was the active participation and engagement of the local community. Residents of Modhera Village embraced the transition to solar energy, recognizing its potential to improve their quality of life while safeguarding the environment for future generations. Through awareness campaigns, training programs, and community workshops, villagers were empowered to take ownership of the solar infrastructure and its maintenance, fostering a sense of pride and self-reliance.

Environmental Benefits and Sustainability:

The adoption of solar power has yielded significant environmental benefits for Modhera Village and its surroundings. By harnessing clean and renewable energy, the village has reduced its carbon footprint, mitigating air and water pollution associated with conventional fossil fuel-based energy sources. The transition to solar power also contributes to the preservation of natural resources and ecosystems, safeguarding the region's biodiversity and ecological balance.

Setting an Example for Sustainable Development:

Modhera Village's achievement serves as a shining example of sustainable development and innovation in the field of renewable energy. The success of the solar initiative has garnered national and international recognition, inspiring other communities and regions to embrace solar power as a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources.

Conclusion:

As the first village in India to be fully powered by solar energy, Modhera Village stands at the forefront of the clean energy revolution. Its journey exemplifies the transformative power of renewable energy technologies in driving economic growth, empowering communities, and safeguarding the planet for future generations. With its unwavering commitment to sustainability, Modhera Village paves the way towards a brighter, cleaner, and more sustainable future for all.

How Major Solar Power plants are accelerating growth of renewable energy in India.

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Major Solar Power plants of India - Introduction

India is rapidly emerging as a global leader in solar energy deployment, with numerous major solar power plants contributing significantly to the country's renewable energy capacity. Here are introductions to some of the major solar power plants in India:

  1. Bhadla Solar Park, Rajasthan:
    • Bhadla Solar Park, located in Rajasthan's Jodhpur district, is one of the largest solar parks not only in India but also globally. It covers an extensive area of over 14,000 acres and has a total installed capacity exceeding 2,245 MW. The park is a testament to Rajasthan's favorable solar irradiation levels and conducive regulatory environment for solar energy development.
    • Bhadla Solar Park consists of multiple solar projects developed by various public and private sector entities, including Adani Green Energy, Azure Power, and ACME Solar Holdings, among others. These projects utilize both photovoltaic (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP) technologies to harness solar energy efficiently.
    • The park plays a crucial role in India's renewable energy transition, contributing significantly to the country's ambitious target of achieving 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022 and 450 GW by 2030. It also facilitates job creation, attracts investments, and strengthens Rajasthan's position as a key player in India's solar energy landscape.
  2. Kurnool Ultra Mega Solar Park, Andhra Pradesh:
    • Situated in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, the Kurnool Ultra Mega Solar Park is one of the largest solar parks in India, covering approximately 5,932 acres of land. The park boasts a total installed capacity of 1,000 MW and comprises multiple solar power projects developed by leading renewable energy developers.
    • The Kurnool Ultra Mega Solar Park has been pivotal in promoting sustainable energy development in Andhra Pradesh and reducing the state's reliance on conventional fossil fuels. It has attracted significant investments, fostered technological innovation, and created employment opportunities across the solar value chain.
    • The park's strategic location, abundant solar resources, and supportive policy framework have positioned Andhra Pradesh as a frontrunner in India's solar energy sector. It serves as a model for other states seeking to leverage solar power to meet their energy demands and address climate change challenges.
  3. Pavagada Solar Park, Karnataka:
    • Pavagada Solar Park, located in Karnataka's Tumakuru district, is one of the largest single-location solar parks in the world. Spanning an area of approximately 13,000 acres, the park has a total installed capacity exceeding 2,000 MW, making it a key contributor to Karnataka's renewable energy goals.
    • The Pavagada Solar Park has been developed in multiple phases and hosts solar projects implemented by various developers, including ACME Solar Holdings, Tata Power Renewable Energy, and Fortum India, among others. The park's successful development underscores Karnataka's commitment to promoting clean energy and fostering sustainable development.
    • Pavagada Solar Park has not only bolstered Karnataka's renewable energy capacity but also contributed to job creation, rural electrification, and socio-economic development in the region. Its establishment reflects Karnataka's proactive approach towards embracing renewable energy technologies and transitioning towards a low-carbon future.
  4. Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Park, Madhya Pradesh:
    • The Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Park, located in the Rewa district of Madhya Pradesh, is one of the largest single-site solar parks in India. It covers an area of approximately 1,590 acres and has a total installed capacity of 750 MW. The park consists of three solar generating units developed by leading solar energy companies.
    • The Rewa Solar Park gained international attention for hosting one of the world's lowest solar tariffs at the time of its auction. It exemplifies the competitive pricing and economic viability of solar power in India's energy landscape. The park's successful implementation reflects Madhya Pradesh's commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development.
  5. Charanka Solar Park, Gujarat:
    • Charanka Solar Park, situated in the Patan district of Gujarat, was one of the first solar parks to be developed in India. It covers an area of approximately 5,384 acres and has a cumulative capacity of over 790 MW. The park hosts several solar power projects implemented by various developers, including Gujarat State Electricity Corporation Limited (GSECL) and private sector entities.
    • Charanka Solar Park is renowned for its innovative solar energy initiatives and efficient use of renewable resources. It has significantly contributed to Gujarat's renewable energy capacity and helped the state emerge as a leader in solar power generation in India. The park's success has inspired similar solar initiatives across the country, fostering the growth of the solar energy sector.

These major solar power plants exemplify India's remarkable progress in renewable energy deployment and underscore the country's transition towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy mix. Through continued investments, innovation, and policy support, India aims to further accelerate the adoption of solar energy and achieve its ambitious renewable energy targets in the years to come.

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

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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.