Installing solar panels on your roof can seem like an exciting way to start generating your own clean energy. However, it’s important to carefully evaluate a few key factors first to ensure you make the best decision for your home. In this blog, we’ll discuss the top considerations every homeowner in India should make before installing rooftop solar panels.
Site Evaluation
The first step is assessing if your roof is even suitable for solar installation. Ideally, you need at least 100 sq. ft. of shade-free area that receives direct sunlight for over 5 hours per day. Have an expert survey your site to note the panel layout, wiring routes, inverter location, and any potential obstructions. Also, ensure your roof’s age and condition can support the additional weight load of the panels and mountings over the system’s 25+ year lifetime.
Panel Capacity
The number and capacity of solar panels influence system size, which dictates factors like upfront costs, future savings, and payback period. On average, you need around 300 Wp of panel capacity per 100 sq. ft. in India. Calculate your household’s daily energy usage before deciding panel capacity so as to cover 50-100% of your electricity needs. Experts can help determine the optimum solar system size for your home.
Available Incentives
India offers attractive central and state-level financial incentives like tax rebates and subsidies to encourage rooftop solar adoption. Check current policies like MNRE capital subsidies, accelerated depreciation, net metering guidelines, etc. that can make systems more affordable. Some states also allow the sale of excess power back to the grid. Accounting for these will give you the true cost savings potential.
Vendor Comparisons
With India’s thriving solar market, many vendors provide rooftop installation services. Comparing service providers on parameters like experience, quality certifications, panel and inverter brands offered, system warranties, maintenance terms, and overall value helps find the best fit. Reputed companies like Waaree Energies use state-of-the-art design software, proven equipment, and skilled teams to deliver maximum return on investment.
Customization Needs
Every household has unique needs, so resist one-size-fits-all solutions. Evaluate extras like panel-integrated storage systems for power backup, net metering capabilities, or solar-powered EV charging that can enhance your solar system’s capabilities as per personal usage patterns. Certain homes may also require customized panel mounting, access walkways on sloped roofs, or added safety features.
Mounting and Accessories
Solar panels can be pole or roof-mounted, with each approach having pros and cons regarding structural stability, wind resistance, installation complexity, and costs. Your installer recommends the optimal technique suited to panel weight, roof design, and minimizing leakage risks during monsoons. Also assess accessories like lightning arrestors, quick connectors, and even cleaning robots that boost system safety, life, and output.
Permits and Compliance
Like any property modification, rooftop panel installation involves procedural clearances too. Solar vendors usually assist clients with paperwork for net metering requests, CEIG approval, electricity board permits, and other regulatory formalities involved. Still, understanding compliance needs upfront ensures your PV system adheres to state electricity authority standards.
O&M Considerations
While solar panels have low maintenance needs, occasional cleaning, connection checks, and inverter servicing are still essential. Review the service contract thoroughly regarding scheduled and breakdown maintenance coverage, response times, spare part stocks, and manpower training. Many developers also provide real-time plant monitoring and performance analysis as value-added services today.
Installation Downtime
If your household can’t afford solar power interruptions, account for this factor too while planning. Rooftop solar retrofits on existing structures typically take 4-7 days with proper site preparation. This involves downtime when parts of the roof are inaccessible. Schedule accordingly during seasons when minimal sunlight is needed indoors. With meticulous planning, reputed vendors can often minimize work duration.
Financial Analysis
The most critical consideration for the return on a rooftop solar investment is assessing the project’s financial viability. While environmental aspects matter too, detailed investment analysis gives confidence regarding payback timeframes. Seek expert guidance to model your system costs, incentives, annual energy output, and savings projections accurately, allowing you to make a well-informed decision.
By considering these aspects in depth before committing to rooftop solar installation, you can make the best choice for your needs and maximize the value delivered by your solar asset over its estimated 25+ year lifespan. India’s leading solar developer, Waaree Energies,
Waaree has been pioneering solar energy solutions across India. With state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and over 5 GW of solar modules installed, we have unparalleled experience that gives us an edge in quality and service. When making a 25+ year investment in a solar system, having an established, reputable company behind the installation is essential. Our engineering expertise delivers solutions tailored to handle all weather conditions and site circumstances.
Prioritizes customer satisfaction by utilizing robust components for maximal solar harvest along with comprehensive maintenance packages. Partnering with India’s leading solar brand ensures the success and reliability of your system today as well as down the road. Invest wisely into solar energy independence with Waaree.
