Installation duration:
Ongrid system: For the Residential ongrid rooftop system of 5KW (for example), installation can be done in 2-3 days (onsite) and installation time might increase depending on the system capacity and site complications (if any). After ongrid system installation, the net meter process is started by applying online, submission of hard copy of necessary documents etc. TANGEDCO personnel do site inspection and then, a net meter is installed. The process usually takes 25-45 days after system installation. But, depending on the availability with TNEB/TANGEDCO and other constraints, this can take much less or more time.
Offgrid system: The system installation takes 3-5 days (onsite) for completion for capacity of 5KW (for example) including the complete AC wiring scope. The system can be commissioned right after the installation, since it does not require any permission from the TNEB or it does not require any net meter.
Hybrid system: The system installation takes 4-6 days (onsite) for completion 5KW (for example) capacity and installation time might vary for different capacity. The net meter process takes 25-45 days from installation but till that time, the system works like an Offgrid system. On commissioning the system along with the net meter, the system performs as a hybrid.
Benefits of Rooftop solar:
- Bill Reduction: One can expect savings in electricity bill of about 60-100% depending on the type of system and the electricity usage. Usually, Ongrid systems give higher bill savings when the net-metering policy is applicable.
- Reliable power: Offgrid systems can give 24/7 power in addition to electricity bill savings. Even when EB/Grid power is OFF, the appliances connected to offgrid systems continue to be powered by solar. Note that Ongrid systems will be switched during EB power-cuts.
- Ease of Maintenance: Solar panels require cleaning (at least once in a month for less pollution areas and twice per month in areas prone to dust). For off grid and hybrid systems battery distilled water topping needs to be done only once in 3 months if installed with lead acid batteries. Also maintenance free batteries like VRLA gel batteries and lithium are available though at a much higher cost.
- Renewable: The fuel source for this system is sunlight, which is abundant and available for lifetime and more. Solar panels have a lifespan of 25 years which is very high. The power production does not involve fossil fuels which might get exhausted at a certain point in the near future. And solar energy is available daily and it’s purely renewable.
- Tariff increase: There might be high chances for the rise of per unit cost for power production and distribution by EB in upcoming years. Going solar helps you beat the inflation in tariff as the panels invested with capital amount might surely provide power free from sunlight and reduce the usage from grid/EB.
- Eco-friendly: Not using fossil fuels and no pollutants are involved in the complete process of energy production. So it is a completely eco-friendly way of producing electricity.
- Self Sufficiency: Solar is preferred by users who believe in self sufficiency and it helps users to go independent to a maximum level. Solar has proven its capability in highly remote areas and also succeeded in both urban and rural areas.