SUNSHINE SAVINGS | Solar rooftops can spark a revolution in cutting electricity bills

Srinagar, Nov 29: Amid economic challenges, solar rooftop plants emerge as a beacon of financial relief for residents in Kashmir, offering both substantial savings on electricity bills and a commitment to clean energy.

As per the officials, a 5-kilowatt solar system proves to be an efficient solution for powering medium-load homes and offices in Kashmir. “Beyond cost reduction, participants gain energy independence, contributing to property value enhancement. The 450 sq ft roof area required for a 5 KW plant generates 20 to 30 units per day in favourable seasons, reducing grid dependence by half in winter months,” they said.

The government's investment in a 5kW grid-connected plant amounts to Rs 2.56 lakh, with beneficiaries contributing Rs 1.10 lakh.

A significant 57 percent subsidy, totalling Rs 1.46 lakh, further incentivises adoption.

For a 3kW plant at Rs 1.57 lakh, a generous 65 percent subsidy (Rs 1.02 lakh) minimises the beneficiary share to Rs 55,224.

Surplus electricity production becomes a valuable asset, visibly reflected in future bills.

Smart meters or Net Meters seamlessly manage energy import, export, and net usage, ensuring accuracy and eliminating the need for manual intervention.

While the scheme operates effectively with a consistent grid supply, power outages pose a temporary hurdle.

The solar rooftop plant, boasting a 25-year warranty, continues to operate beyond this period, albeit with reduced generation.

An estimated savings of Rs 500 per KW per month translates to a minimum of 5 lakh over 25 years for a 5 kW plant at current prices.

Innovations like hybrid inverters and storage batteries offer resilience during power outages.

Conventional lead-acid batteries power light loads, while lithium-ion batteries, using the coveted “white gold” lithium, are ideal for heating loads.

The environmental impact is significant, with each KW of solar power offsetting approximately 0.73 tons of carbon emissions annually, equivalent to planting 33 trees.

Despite occasional drawbacks, the scheme proves alluring for consumers, evident in the expansion of solar rooftop installations. As technology evolves, these initiatives promise not only economic benefits but also a sustainable, eco-friendly future for Kashmir.