The Risk of Skipping DCR Panels in the PM Suryaghar Subsidy Program

The PM Suryaghar Subsidy program has made solar accessible to everyone by incentivising people for installing rooftop solar power systems. The subsidy scheme mandates the use of DCR panels to avail the scheme. However, most customers fall into the trap of opting for non-DCR panels to save costs. This can lead to a lot of long-term issues. Let's explore more in detail to understand better.

What are DCR Panels?

DCR stands for Domestic Content Requirement, and DCR panels are panels manufactured domestically within India. The government's rationale behind mandating DCR to avail the scheme is to promote domestically produced goods. As panels manufactured in India will serve Indian conditions better and provide long-term performance.

Why Not to Risk Going for Non-DCR Panels?

1. Subsidy Eligibility: The primary reason to avoid non-DCR panels would be that they do not qualify for the subsidy scheme. The scheme allows you to cover up to 40% of the initial costs associated with setting up solar. Many customers are unaware and only realise after the installation is completed and hence it is very important to check the type of panels being installed with your provider before installation if you wish to avail the scheme.

2. Lower Performance: Panels imported from other countries might not adapt well to Indian weather conditions and might not be optimised to be tilted based on the Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) of your location. This will prevent you from fully utilising the sunlight on your rooftop and generating optimum amount of electricity.

3. Warranty Issues: Non-DCR panels might lack reliable after-sales services as the manufacturing and management might not be easily accessible. This causes a huge hassle when there is a need for repairs or replacement. DCR panels usually provide robust warranties and local service centres, allowing you to get maintenance and repairs done without any hassle.

How to Overcome the Pitfalls

1. Verify the Installers Claims: Always confirm with your solar provider if the panels being installed are DCR, in your initial consultation.

2. Research the Manufacturer: Ensure your manufacturer is a reputable and approved DCR panel provider that is listed under the subsidy scheme.

3. Clarify Eligibility: Double-check with your solar provider if the panels are eligible for the subsidy scheme and are government approved.

Conclusion

Even though non-DCR panels might seem like an attractive option due to their lower costs, they might create long-term issues. Choosing DCR panels that comply with government regulations allow you the benefits of better performance, durability and maintenance support, while reducing upfront costs by availing the subsidy scheme.

Atria uses Novasys Alpha Plus Series panels that offer a 22% efficiency which is above the industry standard of 15-20%. They are completely subsidy scheme eligible and government approved DCR panels offer a long-term performance warranty of 10 years and manufacturing warranty of 25 years.

Choose Atria for your solar energy system needs. Contact us today at 080 62680000!