Citizen consumer and civic Action Group (CAG), in collaboration with Columbans Anglo Indian School, Parrys George Town, Chennai, organised a Rooftop Solar PV awareness workshop on Thursday, November 6, 2025 and Friday , November 7, 2025. The event took place from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, and was attended by 250 parents from the Surrounding area.
Overview of workshop held on November 6th
Mr. Kaarmuhil (Consultant) and Mr. Subramani (Researcher), CAG ran the workshop. The session began with a welcome address from the Staff of Columban's Anglo Indian School, introducing the CAG team to the other members.
Mr.Subramani, Researcher, CAG explaining rooftop solar system to participants
Mr. Subramani introduced the organisation’s work and gave a detailed presentation on rooftop solar PV systems, covering the following key areas:
a) Different types of PV systems
b) Benefits of adopting solar energy
c) Capacity and space requirements for installation
d) Details of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana subsidy scheme
e) Important guidelines and checklists for safe installation
The CAG team provided comprehensive insights on the advantages and procedures involved in adopting rooftop solar systems. Participants were given IEC materials covering essential topics such as system fundamentals, installation process, financial considerations, and available incentives. As the audience largely comprised residents from the same locality—most living in individual houses—the information was highly relevant and well-received. Many participants expressed strong interest in adopting rooftop solar to lower their electricity costs and contribute to sustainable energy use.
Participant Queries and Discussion
During the interactive Q&A session, participants raised several insightful questions related to rooftop solar systems. The CAG team responded with detailed explanations, addressing both technical and practical aspects.
Some questions asked by the participants during the meeting were as follows:
- Cost of Installing a Rooftop Solar PV System: The CAG team clarified that installation costs vary based on system size, component quality, and site conditions. Indicative price ranges shared during the session were:
- Approximate Cost per kW
- On-Grid System: Rs.50,000 – Rs.80,000
- Off-Grid System (with Lead Acid Battery): Rs.90,000 – Rs.1,20,000
- Hybrid System (with Li-ion Battery) - Rs.1,25,000 - Rs.1,45,000
- Some participants asked about choosing reliable solar vendors. The team explained that under the PM Surya Ghar Scheme, vendors are empanelled and approved by the government. Installations done through the scheme include: 5-year comprehensive warranty covering the entire system, and mandatory service and support for any issues during the warranty period. This ensures accountability, quality assurance, and post-installation support for consumers.
These questions and the discussions contributed to an engaging and informative workshop experience.
Mr.Kaarmuhil, Consultant, CAG explaining rooftop solar system to participants
Overview of workshop held on November 7th
Mr. Kaarmuhil (Consultant) and Ms.Aleena (Consultant), CAG ran the workshop. The session began with a welcome address from the Staff of Columban's Anglo Indian School, introducing the CAG team to other members.
Mr. Kaarmuhil introduced the organisation’s initiatives and delivered a detailed presentation on rooftop solar PV systems. The session covered the following key aspects:
a) Types of rooftop solar PV systems
b) Benefits of transitioning to solar energy
c) Capacity and space requirements for installation
d) Subsidy details under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana
e) Essential installation guidelines and safety checklists
The CAG team further elaborated on the adoption process, highlighting both technical and financial considerations. IEC materials were distributed, providing clear information on installation procedures, investment needs, and available incentives.
As most participants were individual homeowners from the same locality, the session content was highly relevant to their needs. The audience showed strong interest in rooftop solar as a practical solution to reduce electricity expenses while contributing to a greener future.
Participant Queries and Discussion
During the interactive Q&A session, participants raised several practical and insightful questions about rooftop solar systems. The CAG team provided clear, detailed responses, addressing both technical considerations and on-ground implementation challenges.
Some questions asked by the participants during the meeting were as follows:
- Time period to complete the installation: The CAG team explained that after selecting the vendor, installation takes about 7 to 15 days, depending on system size and site conditions. Net metering approval from DISCOM can take an additional 7 to 14 days.
- Few participants enquired about the vendor selection process. The team emphasised that they select the vendors through the PM Surya Ghar scheme. When installing RTS through the scheme, the vendors are mandated to provide 5 years comprehensive warranty for the entire system and attend to any complaints arising within this period.
- One participant raised a question regarding the e-waste generated from rooftop solar panels and batteries. In response, the CAG team explained that there are specific companies specialised in e-waste management. These companies are responsible for collecting and safely reusing or recycling discarded solar components and batteries.
Next Steps & Conclusion
Mr. Kaarmuhil concluded the session, with participants expressing appreciation for the initiative. The participants were asked to contact CAG in case of any doubts or queries related to rooftop solar. For further details, CAG has prepared an SOP for rooftop solar installations. You can access the English version here and the Tamil version here.