How long does it take to recover the cost of a 3kW solar panel system? Here is the breakdown.

The government is offering subsidies for installing solar panels on rooftops under the 'PM Surya Ghar' scheme. Along with the central government, some state governments are also offering subsidies to encourage people to install solar panels and save on hefty electricity bills. Typically, people install solar systems ranging from 1kW to 5kW. If you install a 3kW solar system, how much subsidy will you receive, and how long will it take to recover the cost through electricity savings? Let’s find out...

Even after the subsidy, you still have to bear 40% to 70% of the total installation cost yourself. However, you can recover this expense through savings on your electricity bill. This process can take anywhere from 3 to 5 years, depending on your household's power load.

Cost of a 3kW System

This is considered the ideal solar system for a 3BHK flat. Most people in India prefer installing a 3kW solar system. The installation cost ranges from ₹1,40,000 to ₹1,60,000. The government provides a subsidy of ₹78,000, meaning your net expenditure comes to ₹82,000.

By installing a 3kW system, you can save between ₹2,000 and ₹2,500 per month on your electricity bill. Consequently, it takes about 3.5 to 4 years to recover the total cost.

What appliances can it run?

A 3kW solar system can handle your entire household load. You can even run a 1.5-ton inverter AC on this system. Moreover, other household appliances—such as refrigerators, water pumps, and air coolers—can also run smoothly on it. However, the power generation of solar panels depends on weather conditions and maintenance. If the panels do not receive adequate sunlight, power generation may be affected; similarly, dirty panels can also lead to a drop in output.