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, comprising a solar expert and a coordinator with the aim of guiding consumers on solar system-related enquiries. The Solar Advisory Units are currently functioning in Madurai, Salem, Dindigul and Thiruvarur districts.
Mr.G.N.Bharath Ram, Senior Researcher, CAG meeting at Namakkal
The CAG team gave an overview of its work and current initiatives, with a focus on raising awareness about rooftop solar energy. They shared practical insights for consumers on what consumers need to know before installing a rooftop solar system, how to select vendors, ways to address grievances against vendors, and how to address concerns with DISCOM officials.
Mr. Kaathavarayan, Assistant Executive Engineer, during the meeting at Kannivaadi, Dindigul
The meetings were conducted on
- 10 December 2025 between 11 AM to 1 PM at TNSTC Thirumangam, Kallikudi Depot, Thirumangalam, Madurai
- 14 December 2025 between 11 AM to 1 PM at Namakkal Kavignar Memorial Hall, Namakkal,
- 15 December 2025 between 11 AM to 1 PM at Kannivadi, Dindigul
- 18 December 2025 between 11 AM to 1 PM at Peravurani, Thanjavur
- 18 December 2025 between 3 PM to 5 PM at Pattukottai, Thanjavur
- 20 December 2025 between 11 AM to 1 PM at Retired Officers Association, Thirumangalam., Madurai
- 23 December 2025 between 11 AM to 1 PM at Vedasanthur, Dindigul
Ms.Packiyalakshmi, Coordinator, Solar Advisory Unit - Madurai, at the meeting
The outreach meetings brought together a diverse group of participants, including representatives from residential welfare associations, teachers, local business leaders from commercial associations, farmers, and consumers.
Participants during the meeting at Salem
Further, the meetings aimed to raise awareness about solar energy, and included a comprehensive presentation on rooftop solar PV systems, covering system types, capacity requirements, space needs, investment costs, available subsidies based on tariff categories, payback period calculations, and key installation guidelines.
Mr.Ramesh, Coordinator, Solar Advisory Unit - Thiruvarur at the meeting
Participant Queries
Participants inquired about the technical and financial aspects of rooftop solar. Solar experts from the Solar Advisory units answered the queries. Key questions asked by the participants and the answers discussed are as below.
- How is rooftop solar better than normal electricity?
Rooftop solar allows you to generate your own electricity, reducing dependence on DISCOM supply. Once installed, sunlight is free, so your monthly electricity bill drops sharply—often by 50–90%. Solar power also protects you from future tariff hikes and reduces carbon emissions, making it both economical and environmentally friendly.
- What happens to solar power during the monsoon season?
On rainy days, solar panels do not generate electricity. During cloudy days, it can generate electricity, although at a reduced capacity..
- Can I use both solar power and normal electricity?
Yes. Most homes use on-grid installation or hybrid systems.
- During the day, solar power is used first
- If solar is insufficient, TNPDCL electricity automatically comes from the grid
- Excess solar power can be exported to the grid through net metering
Therefore, we don’t need to manually switch anything.
- Which solar vendor will give me a good price?
For residential users, vendors empanelled under PM Surya Ghar Yojana are generally reliable and price-regulated. A good vendor offers:
- MNRE-approved panels and inverter
- Transparent quotation (no hidden charges)
- Installation + after-sales service
- Performance warranty
- How will I know I’m getting good-quality solar panels?
Check the following:
- Panels are MNRE / ALMM listed
- Minimum 25-year performance warranty
- IEC / BIS certifications
- Serial numbers and test certificates
- Avoid unbranded or imported panels without traceability.
- Does rooftop solar cause radiation harmful to people in the house?
No. This is a myth. Solar panels do not emit harmful radiation. They simply convert sunlight into electricity, similar to calculators or streetlights. Panels and inverters comply with international electrical safety standards and are completely safe for residential use.
Mr.Ramachandran, Solar Advisor, providing advisory services during a meeting at Dindigul
Feedback:
Participants found the meeting to be highly useful and informative, gaining valuable insights into rooftop solar installations and expressing interest in adopting solar energy for their homes. The participants were informed about the Solar Advisory Unit, which is present in their respective districts, which will support consumers in accessing reliable information and raising grievances related to solar installations.
The Solar Advisory Units have guided a total of 18 inquiries, resulting in a combined solar capacity of 41kW 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.