Citizen consumer and civic Action Group (CAG), in collaboration with Solar Advisory Units of Salem, Madurai 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.Suresh Kumar, Coordinator, Solar Advisory Unit - Dindigul, during the meeting
Solar Advisory Units provided a summary of their activities and ongoing projects, emphasising the importance of awareness for the adoption of rooftop solar energy. The units shared information with consumers regarding what to consider before installing a rooftop solar system, tips for choosing vendors, methods for resolving issues with vendors, and strategies for addressing concerns with DISCOM officials.
Mr.Selvakumar, Solar Expert, Solar Advisory Unit - Madurai, during the meeting
The meetings were conducted on
- 11 October 2025 from 3 PM to 5 PM at Agrini Apartment, Andalpuram, Madurai South, Madurai
- 12 October 2025 from 4 PM to 7 PM at APP Nagar Residential Welfare Association, Ottanchathiram, Dindigul
- 13 October 2025 from 4 PM to 7 PM at RR Meeting Hall, Seelanaikenpatti, Salem
Mr.Khaja, Solar Expert, Solar Advisory Unit - Salem, during the meeting
Representatives from Residential Welfare Associations, local business leaders from various commercial associations and consumers attended the programme.
Participant Queries
Participants inquired about the technical and financial aspects of rooftop solar with experts answering them. Key questions asked by the participants and the answers discussed are briefed below.
- Which type of solar panel is the best for residential houses ?
Monocrystalline panels are generally considered the most efficient and durable option, especially for residential installations. They offer the highest power output per unit area, making them suitable for homes with limited roof space. Efficiency ratings of monocrystalline solar panels range from 17% to 22%.
- What is the time required to complete the installation of a rooftop solar PV system?
After finalising the vendor, the actual installation of the rooftop solar system varies between 7 to 15 days, depending on the system size and the site conditions. For net metering, the time taken for approval by the distribution company (DISCOM) can vary between 7 to 14 days.
- Is subsidy available for all three types of rooftop solar PV systems?
Subsidy is available for on-grid and hybrid solar systems. For off-grid systems, no subsidy is available.
- What are the parameters that should be considered while selecting a vendor ?
When selecting a vendor, the following may be considered
- Whether they are empanelled with the PM Surya Ghar Scheme
- Vendors' experience in the field. (Number of projects completed, total capacity installed etc). All of this is available in the Surya Ghar portal.
- Customer feedback/rating on their website
Participants appreciated the session for being both informative and engaging. They were encouraged to contact the Solar Advisory Units for any further questions or assistance related to rooftop solar systems.