Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for the PM Surya Ghar Yojana Solar Subsidy

The government of India's PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is a massive initiative designed to provide up to 300 units of free electricity per month to 1 crore households. The program offers a central subsidy of up to ₹78,000 for residential rooftop solar systems.

To claim this subsidy, you must follow the official application procedure on the National Portal. Here is the step-by-step walkthrough.

Step 1: Portal Registration The entire application is digital. 1. Visit the official website: [pmsuryaghar.gov.in](https://pmsuryaghar.gov.in/). 2. Click on **Apply for Rooftop Solar**. 3. Select your State, District, and your Electricity Distribution Company (DISCOM). 4. Enter your **Electricity Consumer Connection Number** (printed on your monthly bill), your mobile number, and your email address. Follow the OTP verification steps to set up your account.

Step 2: Feasibility Approval Request Once registered, log in to your dashboard to submit your project plan: 1. Enter the proposed solar system capacity (e.g. 3 kW is typical for homes with average bills of ₹3,000 to ₹4,500). 2. Upload a copy of your recent electricity bill. 3. Submit the form. The system will route the request to your local DISCOM. 4. DISCOM engineers will review your electrical transformer capacity and issue a **Feasibility Approval** online. This step usually takes 2 to 5 days.

Step 3: Choosing a Vetted Installer Do not hire an unauthorized vendor. You will **only** receive your subsidy if the installation is completed by an approved, registered installer. - Search the portal directory for registered vendors in your district. - Compare quotes, finalize panel brands (they must use Indian-manufactured modules to qualify), and sign the installation agreement. - *Note:* The vendor will handle the engineering work, but make sure they use components that comply with MNRE technical guidelines.

Step 4: Installation & Uploading Details Once the physical installation is complete, the vendor will submit a "Work Completion" report on the portal. You must: 1. Upload photographs of your completed solar panels, inverter setup, and safety distribution boxes. 2. Submit a request for net metering installation to your DISCOM.

Step 5: DISCOM Inspection & Net Metering Synchronization A DISCOM inspector will visit your home to verify the safety and quality of the installation: - They check the earthing pits, lightning arrestor, and wiring connections. - If approved, they will install the Bi-directional Net Meter and issue a **Commissioning Certificate** online.

Step 6: Claiming Your Subsidy Once the commissioning certificate is visible on your portal dashboard: 1. Log in and submit your bank account details (including a cancelled cheque scan) under the **Claim Subsidy** tab. 2. The National Portal processes the request and transfers the subsidy amount directly into your bank account via DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) within **30 days**.

Subsidy Calculation Scale Reference: - **1 kW System:** ₹30,000 subsidy. - **2 kW System:** ₹60,000 subsidy (₹30,000/kW). - **3 kW or Higher:** Fixed at **₹78,000** (₹30,000 for the first 2 kW plus ₹18,000 for the 3rd kW). Systems larger than 3 kW are capped at ₹78,000.