Changes in the rules for installing solar panels
If you are also planning to install solar panels on the roof of your house to get relief from the scorching heat and to reduce your electricity bill to zero, then there is a very important news for you. Actually, the government is going to implement a new rule in the solar industry from June 1, 2026. Under this new change (ALMM List-II), now along with the solar panel, it will also be mandatory for the ‘solar cells’ used in it to meet the government standards. This decision is going to have a direct impact on your pocket, because the cost of installing a solar system may increase in the coming days. However, it is a matter of relief that the subsidy given under ‘PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme’ will continue as before.
What is the new rule applicable from June 1?
Till now this rule was applicable in the market that the solar panels installed in homes should be certified from the government approved list (ALMM List-I). But now the government has made this system a little stricter. Under the new rule to be implemented from June 1, small ‘solar cells’ installed inside solar panels should also be included in the government’s approved list (List-II). The government has made it clear that this deadline will not be extended at any cost. Its purpose is to ban foreign equipment of poor quality.
How much will the cost increase?
With the implementation of new standards, a big change will be seen in the market. Experts believe that the mandatory use of domestic solar cells is almost certain to increase panel prices. If you install a 1 kilowatt (1kW) solar system, you may have to spend around ₹ 3000 extra than before. According to this mathematics, the burden on your pocket can be around ₹ 6000 for a 2 kW setup and around ₹ 9000 for installing a 3 kW system. If the supply of approved cells reduces in the market, this expense may increase even more.
Will government subsidies end?
Along with the news of change in rules in the market, many types of misleading things are also spreading on social media. It is being claimed that the government will now stop the subsidy, but this news is completely baseless. The financial assistance provided to the general public under ‘PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme’ will continue without any interruption. Customers will continue to get the same discount of ₹ 30,000 on 1 KW, ₹ 60,000 on 2 KW and a maximum of ₹ 78,000 on systems of 3 KW or above as before. Many state governments will also continue to provide top-up subsidy. The only change will be that now the paperwork, vendor selection and verification process to avail the subsidy will become a little more stringent.
What are the options for consumers?
If you are going to install a new system, then there are mainly two options in front of you. The first option is ‘Subsidy Route’. It is most suitable for those families who want to eliminate their electricity bill. However, in this you will have to choose only the technology and components decided by the government. The second route is ‘Freedom Route’, in which you do not get any subsidy. It is better for those who want to use the latest global technology (like HJT, HDT or Lithium batteries). It is a strong and durable option for areas with heavy power cuts. Although its initial cost may be high, its performance in the long run is quite excellent.
