Citizen consumer and civic Action Group (CAG), in collaboration with Solar Advisory Units of Salem, Madurai, Thiruvarur and Dindigul organised outreach meetings on rooftop solar PV systems. The Solar Advisory Unit is an initiative by CAG, with each unit comprising a solar expert and a coordinator. The aim is to guide consumers with reliable information on solar system-related enquiries.
Mr. Manikandan, Researcher, introducing CAG at the Salem meeting
The CAG Team provided a summary of their activities and ongoing projects, emphasising the importance of awareness for adoption of rooftop solar energy. The CAG Team shared information for consumers regarding what to consider prior to installing a rooftop solar system, tips for choosing vendors, methods to resolve issues with vendors, and strategies for addressing concerns with DISCOM officials.
Mr.Ponram, Solar Expert, Solar Advisory Unit - Dindigul, during the meeting
The meetings were conducted on
- 08 August 2025 between 10 AM to 12 PM at Hill City Meeting Hall, Bedford Road,Yercaud, Salem
- 18 August 2025 between 10:00 AM to 12 Noon at Lakshmangudi, Tiruvarur
- 19 August 2025 between 7:30 PM to 9 PM at De Versity Club, Gandhi Road, Salem
- 23 August 2025 between 4 PM to 6 PM Alagappan Nagar, Thiruparankundram, Madurai
- 28 August 2025 between 6 PM to 8 PM at Kasturiba Gandhi Higher Secondary School auditorium, Tiruvarur
- 30 August 2025 between 4 PM to 6 PM at Surya Nagar, Madurai.
- 31 August 2025 between 11 AM to 1 PM at Ammu Mart, New Tharapuram Road, Pazhani, Dindigul
Mr.Narendren, Solar Expert, Solar Advisor Unit - Salem, explaining solar panels at Madurai
Representatives from residential welfare associations, local business leaders from various commercial associations, farmers, and consumers attended the programme.
Mr.Kirubakaran, Researcher, explaining about the rooftop solar systems
Further, the meetings also focused on increasing awareness of solar energy and included an in-depth presentation on rooftop solar PV systems. This covered system types, capacity requirements, space considerations, investment costs, available subsidies linked to tariff categories, calculations for payback periods, and essential installation guidelines.
Mr.Ramesh, Coordinator, Solar Advisory Unit - Thiruvarur, during the meeting
Participant Queries
Participants inquired about the technical and financial aspects of rooftop solar. Solar experts from Solar Advisory units, answered for the queries. Key questions asked by the participants and the answers discussed are briefed below.
- Do solar panels work on cloudy days?
Yes, solar panels can generate electricity on cloudy days. However, the amount of electricity generated is less than on clear, sunny days.
- How many days does it take to get the subsidy amount?
The subsidy amount is received within 15 days of the successful submission of the commissioning report, provided all required data entries — such as the name (with correct spelling as in ID proof), DCR panel serial number, service connection number, bank account number, and address are properly filled.
- Are there any health hazards for residents installing rooftop solar?
Residents are generally safe from health effects because solar panels emit minimal, non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation and are made of safe, encapsulated materials. However, proper installation and maintenance by professionals is essential to prevent electrical hazards and ensure long-term safety.
- Could we use solar installation on our farm?
Yes, solar-powered pumps were installed on agricultural farms through the PM Kusum Scheme.
- Was there a subsidy for solar installation in agriculture?
Yes, subsidies for solar installation in farming were available through the PM Kusum scheme. This scheme covers stand-alone solar agriculture pumps, grid-connected solar pumps, and solar power plants on agricultural land.
- I live in a double storey house. The tenant above is not interested. How could I install a rooftop solar system?
If you are the house owner and the service connection is in your name, you can install the system. However, if it is a rented house, you have to get a no objection certificate (NOC) from the house owner for installation.
- How could I get the best price for rooftop installation?
You could get the best price for rooftop installation by comparing quotes from at least 3 empanelled vendors at your residential location.
A prosumer shares his experience during the meeting at Thiruvarur
Feedback:
Participants expressed that the meeting was beneficial and informative, helping them gain crucial insights into rooftop solar installations and demonstrating a keen interest in adopting solar energy for their residences. They were informed about the existence of the Solar Advisory Unit within their respective districts, which would assist consumers in obtaining reliable information and addressing grievances related to solar installation processes.
Solar Enquiries:
The Solar Advisory Units have guided a total of 25 inquiries, resulting in a combined solar capacity of 60 kW spread across four distinct districts. This initiative reflects a growing interest in renewable energy solutions and showcases the potential for sustainable development in each of these areas.