Maharashtra residents facing relatively higher domestic electricity tariffs in 2026, here’s key alert and relief! While MSEDCL rates remain among the steeper ones despite a planned 10% cut this year (part of 26% phased reduction over 5 years), install rooftop solar under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana to generate up to 300 units free monthly. Special boost for low-consumption homes via state SMART Solar Scheme – save thousands on bills in cities like Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Thane, and Nashik.
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PM Surya Ghar Yojana continues strongly in 2026, providing central subsidy for rooftop solar: ₹30,000 per kW up to 2 kW, plus ₹18,000 per kW for next capacity (total up to ₹78,000 for 3+ kW systems). A 2-3 kW system generates 250-400 units/month, covering most household needs via net metering – excess credited to bill.
Maharashtra adds SMART Solar Scheme for consumers using below 100 units/month (BPL, SC/ST priority): Up to 90-95% combined subsidy, making small systems almost free. General consumers get full central benefits with MSEDCL net metering support. No major additional state subsidy for all, but low users get extra push.
Tariff context: Domestic rates start from ₹7-12 per unit (slabs), with 10% average reduction in FY2026 – but still higher than many states.
How Much Benefit/Relief/Savings
Solar offsets high rates effectively.
| System Size | Approx Cost (Before Subsidy) | Central Subsidy | Net Cost (General) | Monthly Generation (Avg) | Annual Savings (at ₹8/unit avg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 kW | ₹50,000-60,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹20,000-30,000 | 120-150 units | ₹10,000-12,000 |
| 2 kW | ₹90,000-1,10,000 | ₹60,000 | ₹30,000-50,000 | 250-300 units | ₹20,000-25,000 |
| 3 kW | ₹1,40,000-1,70,000 | ₹78,000 | ₹62,000-92,000 | 350-450 units | ₹30,000+ |
Low users (<100 units): Extra state subsidy reduces net cost to ₹5,000-10,000 for 1 kW. Zero bill possible + income from excess sale.
How It Affects You
- In urban areas (Mumbai suburbs, Pune): High consumption from ACs – solar cuts summer bills drastically.
- Rural/suburban: Easier roof space, good sunshine.
- Net metering by MSEDCL: Credits carry forward, annual settlement.
- Amid tariff reductions (10% in 2026), solar locks in long-term free power for 25 years.
Tips to Avoid Trouble – Application Details
- Register on pmsuryaghar.gov.in portal.
- Select MSEDCL as DISCOM, choose empanelled vendor.
- Upload Aadhaar, bill, roof proof.
- For SMART Scheme (low users): Check eligibility via MEDA/MSEDCL sites.
- Get approval, install, inspection – subsidy direct to account.
- Use low-interest loans if needed (many banks tied up).
- Avoid non-registered installers to ensure subsidy.
Have you installed solar yet? How much do you think you’ll save on Maharashtra bills in 2026 with this boost?
Comment below and share your views!
Stay updated with us for all latest solar subsidies, MSEDCL tariff changes, and power relief updates in 2026.