How much does solar installation cost in Ratlam?+
A 3kW residential system costs ₹1,80,000–2,20,000 before subsidy. After PM Surya Ghar subsidy of ₹78,000, the effective cost is ₹1,02,000–1,42,000. For commercial use, a 3kW system costs about ₹1,45,000–1,70,000 and a 5kW system about ₹2,20,000–2,50,000 (commercial systems do not get PM Surya Ghar subsidy).
How much PM Surya Ghar subsidy will I get?+
1kW: ₹30,000 | 2kW: ₹60,000 | 3kW and above: ₹78,000 (maximum). Subsidy is credited directly to your bank account within 30–45 days of commissioning.
How much electricity will a 3kW solar system generate in Ratlam?+
A 3kW system in Ratlam generates approximately 330–390 units per month (average 360 units). Yearly generation is 3,900–4,500 units. Ratlam receives excellent solar irradiation of 5.0–5.5 kWh/m²/day.
How long does solar installation take in Ratlam?+
Physical installation takes 1–2 days. DISCOM net meter connection takes 30–45 days. Your system starts generating electricity from Day 1 of installation — the net meter just formalizes the grid export.
Will my electricity bill become zero after solar?+
For most residential customers using 200–400 units/month, a properly sized solar system can reduce bills by 80–100%. A 3kW system generates ~360 units/month which covers typical household consumption. There may be minimal fixed charges from DISCOM.
Does solar work during rainy/cloudy weather?+
Yes! Solar panels generate 20–30% of their rated output even on cloudy days. During heavy rain, output is minimal but the system works. Ratlam's annual sunshine hours ensure excellent annual generation despite monsoon months.
What warranty do solar panels come with?+
Tier-1 panels (Adani, Waaree) come with: 10–12 years product warranty (manufacturing defects) and 30 years performance warranty (80% output guaranteed at 30 years). Inverters have 5–10 years warranty.
Do I need a battery with my solar system?+
For Ratlam with stable grid supply, a battery is NOT required for most homes. An on-grid system with net metering is sufficient and more economical. Battery (hybrid system) is recommended only if you face power cuts of 4+ hours daily.
Is my roof suitable for solar panels?+
Most RCC flat roofs, tin/GI sheet roofs, and concrete roofs are suitable. Requirements: minimum 10 sq.ft per kW, south-facing preferred (east/west also works), minimal shading from trees or buildings. Kalash Energy provides a free site survey to assess your roof.
Can I get solar on EMI / loan?+
Yes! Solar loans are available from banks like SBI, Bank of Baroda, PNB, and NBFCs at 6–12% interest rate. Many banks have dedicated green energy loan schemes. Example: EMI on ₹1 lakh at 6% for 5 years = approx ₹1,933/month — often less than your monthly electricity savings!
What is net metering and how does it work?+
Net metering is a billing system where your solar system's excess electricity is exported to the grid. DISCOM installs a bidirectional meter. You pay only for net units consumed (imported - exported). In MP, export rate is approx ₹2.65–3.50/unit, credited against your bill.
How many years will solar panels last?+
Quality solar panels last 25–30 years with minimal degradation. They come with a 25-year performance warranty guaranteeing 80% output. The inverter typically lasts 10–15 years and may need one replacement during the panel's lifetime.
How much roof space is needed for solar?+
Approximately 10–12 sq.ft (1 sq.meter) per 100W of solar capacity. A 3kW system needs about 300 sq.ft (28 sq.meters) of shadow-free roof area. Standard 400W panels are approx 2m x 1m each, so 3kW needs 7–8 panels.
Can tenants (renters) apply for PM Surya Ghar subsidy?+
No. PM Surya Ghar subsidy is only for property owners with a valid electricity connection in their name. Tenants cannot apply unless the DISCOM connection is in their name. The property owner can apply and install solar.
Is there any annual maintenance cost for solar?+
Minimal maintenance required. Basic costs: Monthly cleaning (water/cloth - free DIY or ₹200-500 by service). Annual health check ₹1,000–2,000. AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract) from Kalash Energy covers regular checks, cleaning, and emergency support.
Does solar work on 3-phase connection?+
Yes! Solar systems work on both single-phase and three-phase connections. For 3-phase, a 3-phase inverter is used. Most commercial and large residential (above 10kW) installations use 3-phase systems.
How do I check my PM Surya Ghar application status?+
Visit pmsuryaghar.gov.in and login with your registered mobile number. You can track application status, DISCOM approval, installation, and subsidy payment status all on the portal.
Can solar be installed on a rented/leased property?+
Yes, with the property owner's written consent. The electricity connection must be in the applicant's or owner's name for subsidy eligibility. Commercial leased properties commonly install solar with landlord agreement.
How much CO2 does solar save?+
A 3kW solar system in Ratlam saves approximately 1.5–1.8 tonnes of CO2 per year (equivalent to planting 70–80 trees annually). Over 25 years, that's 37–45 tonnes of CO2 avoided — a significant environmental contribution.
What happens after 25 years — do panels need replacement?+
After 25 years, panels still generate 80%+ of original output. You can continue using them — they don't suddenly stop. When you decide to upgrade, solar recycling programs will be widely available. The inverter (10–15 year life) will need one replacement during this period.
How long does it take to receive PM Surya Ghar subsidy?+
Generally it takes 10 to 60 days after commissioning. Most Kalash Energy customers receive their subsidy credit within 10–30 days. The process depends on DISCOM inspection completion and government portal processing speed.
What type of mounting structure does Kalash Energy install?+
We install fully engineered non-welded GI structures. Legs: GI 160×50 mm (2mm gauge). Rafters & purlins: GI 80×41 mm (2mm gauge). Hot-dip galvanized finish for 25+ year rust protection. For premium installations we offer HDGI with thicker zinc coating.
Why should I avoid welded structures and cheap 41×41 mm structures?+
Welding burns the protective zinc at joints — exposed metal starts rusting within 2–4 monsoon seasons. 41×41 mm structures are undersized and not engineered for proper panel load. Many vendors use these to save cost. Always insist on non-welded 2mm gauge GI with 160×50 mm legs.
What type of wires does Kalash Energy use?+
We use only 100% pure copper FRLS-grade (Flame Retardant Low Smoke) wires. DC cables are solar-grade UV-resistant. FRLS wires do not catch fire easily and produce minimal smoke during faults — critical for rooftop safety. We strictly avoid aluminium and bonded CCA copper wires.
How can I verify quality of materials installed by Kalash Energy?+
At Kalash Energy you are welcome to verify everything on site. Check panel brand labels, inverter documentation, structure gauge (should be 2mm — check with vernier caliper), and wire brand markings (should say FRLS on outer sheath). We provide a material specification sheet before installation starts. A genuine vendor always supports on-site verification.