TANGEDCO Rooftop Solar Scheme: Subsidy, Benefits in Tamil Nadu

As electricity costs continue to rise, more households and businesse in Tamil Nadu are looking for smart and long-term solutions to reduce their power bills. One of the best options available today is rooftop solar power supported by the TANGEDCO Rooftop Solar Scheme. This scheme encourages people to install solar panels on their rooftops and generate their own clean electricity with government support and subsidies.

In this detailed guide, we will explain everything about the TANGEDCO Rooftop Solar Scheme, including how it works, who can apply, benefits, subsidy details, installation process, and frequently asked questions.

What is the TANGEDCO Rooftop Solar Scheme?

The TANGEDCO Rooftop Solar Scheme is an initiative supported by the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (TANGEDCO) in coordination with the central government’s solar programs. The main goal of this scheme is to promote solar energy adoption across residential, commercial, and institutional buildings in Tamil Nadu.

Under this scheme, electricity consumers can install grid-connected rooftop solar systems and use the power generated for their own consumption. Any excess electricity produced can be exported to the grid through a net metering system, helping users save more on their monthly electricity bills.

Why Tamil Nadu is Ideal for Rooftop Solar

Tamil Nadu is one of the best states in India for solar energy due to:

• High solar radiation throughout the year
• Large number of independent houses and commercial rooftops
• Growing electricity demand
• Strong government support for renewable energy

With these favorable conditions, rooftop solar systems under the TANGEDCO scheme can deliver excellent performance and faster return on investment.

Key Objectives of the TANGEDCO Rooftop Solar Scheme

The main objectives of this scheme include:

• Reducing dependency on conventional electricity
• Promoting clean and renewable energy
• Lowering electricity bills for consumers
• Reducing carbon emissions
• Supporting India’s renewable energy targets

Types of Rooftop Solar Systems Under TANGEDCO

1. Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar System

• Connected to the TANGEDCO electricity grid
• Uses net metering
• Most popular option
• Eligible for government subsidy

2. Off-Grid Rooftop Solar System

• Not connected to the grid
• Uses batteries for power storage
• Suitable for areas with frequent power cuts
• Usually not eligible for subsidy

3. Hybrid Rooftop Solar System

• Combination of grid-connected and battery backup
• Higher cost but offers uninterrupted power

Net Metering System Explained

Net metering is a key feature of the TANGEDCO rooftop solar scheme.

• Solar panels generate electricity during the day
• Power is first used by the home or business
• Extra electricity is sent to the grid
• Exported units are adjusted in the electricity bill
• Consumers pay only for net electricity consumption

This system ensures maximum savings and efficient use of solar power.

TANGEDCO Rooftop Solar Subsidy Details

The rooftop solar subsidy is provided under the central government scheme, implemented through state DISCOMs like TANGEDCO. The subsidy amount depends on the system capacity and is applicable mainly for residential consumers.

Subsidy Eligibility

• Only for residential rooftop solar systems
• Grid-connected systems only
• Installed through MNRE-approved vendors
• Subsidy is directly credited to the consumer’s bank account

TANGEDCO Rooftop Solar Subsidy Table

Note: Subsidy amounts may vary slightly based on MNRE guidelines and benchmark costs.

Who Can Apply for the TANGEDCO Rooftop Solar Scheme?

The scheme is open to:

• Individual homeowners
• Residential buildings
• Apartment owners (with common meter)
• Housing societies
• Commercial buildings (without subsidy)
• Educational institutions
• Industrial units

Benefits of TANGEDCO Rooftop Solar Scheme

1. Lower Electricity Bills: Solar panels significantly reduce monthly electricity expenses, and in many cases, bills can be reduced by up to 90%.
2. Government Subsidy: Residential users receive attractive subsidies that reduce the overall installation cost.
3. Long-Term Savings: Solar systems have a lifespan of 25 years or more, offering decades of free electricity.
4. Environment-Friendly: Solar energy helps reduce carbon emissions and air pollution.
5. Increased Property Value: Homes with solar installations often have higher resale value.
6. Energy Independence: Reduced dependence on grid power and protection from future tariff hikes.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for TANGEDCO Rooftop Solar

• Step 1: Site Assessment: Check rooftop space, sunlight availability, and electricity consumption.
• Step 2: Choose System Capacity: Based on monthly electricity usage and roof size.
• Step 3: Select Approved Vendor: Choose an MNRE-empaneled solar installer.
• Step 4: Online Application: Apply through the national rooftop solar portal.
• Step 5: TANGEDCO Approval: DISCOM inspection and technical approval.
• Step 6: Installation: Solar panels, inverter, and wiring installation.
• Step 7: Net Meter Installation: TANGEDCO installs the net meter.
• Step 8: Subsidy Disbursement: Subsidy amount is credited directly to the consumer’s bank account.

Cost of Rooftop Solar System in Tamil Nadu

Documents Required

• Latest electricity bill
• Aadhaar card
• PAN card
• Bank account details
• Property ownership proof
• Rooftop consent (for apartments)

Maintenance of Rooftop Solar Systems

Solar systems require very little maintenance:

• Cleaning panels once or twice a month
• Checking inverter performance
• Annual electrical inspection

With proper care, systems perform efficiently for decades.

Common Myths About Rooftop Solar

Myth 1: Solar doesn’t work during cloudy days
Fact: Solar panels still generate power even in diffused sunlight

Myth 2: Maintenance is expensive
Fact: Maintenance costs are very low

Myth 3: Solar panels damage roofs
Fact: Proper installation keeps rooftops safe

Future of Rooftop Solar in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu is rapidly moving toward renewable energy leadership. With continuous support from TANGEDCO and government subsidy programs, rooftop solar adoption is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. This will help reduce power shortages, protect the environment, and empower consumers.

Conclusion

The TANGEDCO Rooftop Solar Scheme is an excellent opportunity for residents and businesses in Tamil Nadu to switch to clean, affordable, and reliable solar energy. With attractive subsidies, net metering benefits, and long-term savings, rooftop solar is no longer a luxury but a smart investment for the future.

If you are planning to reduce your electricity bills and contribute to a greener Tamil Nadu, now is the perfect time to install a rooftop solar system under the TANGEDCO scheme.