3 kW Solar Power in Maharashtra: Price, Subsidy & ROI Calculation

As the cost of electricity continues to go up, many homeowners in Maharashtra are seriously looking into rooftop solar as a viable energy solution. A 3 kW solar system is often considered the best option — it provides enough power for a regular home or small flat, and remains cost-effective.

What is the cost of a 3kW solar system in Maharashtra (as of 2025)?

Without any subsidy, a 3kW rooftop solar installation typically costs between ₹ 2.0 to ₹ 2.05 lakh, depending on the city and specific setup.With the help of the subsidy under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, implemented through the Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (MEDA) and local DISCOMs, the cost for many homeowners drops significantly.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Note: The subsidy amount is fixed at ₹ 78,000 for each household rooftop installation of 3 kW or more.

This makes the overall cost significantly more accessible and appealing — a big difference from older, pricier solar installations.

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What is included in the cost?

When you pay ₹ 2.0 to ₹ 2.05 lakh (before subsidy), you are paying for a complete on-grid rooftop solar setup.This includes solar panels, inverter, mounting structure, wiring, installation, the net-metering setup, and all necessary connection formalities through MEDA or DISCOM.After the subsidy is applied, the net cost (around ₹ 1.22 to ₹ 1.27 lakh) is what the homeowner actually pays.This amount is credited directly to your bank account after the installation and inspection are completed.

Why 3 kW is a Good Fit for a Home, Small Apartment, or Housing Society Flat

·       A 3 kW solar system is typically enough to cover the electricity needs of a small to medium house or flat — including fans, lights, refrigerators, and some moderate use of air conditioners (depending on your usage pattern).

·       Several sources estimate that a 3 kW setup can generate between 4,200 to 4,350 units of electricity per year under good sunlight conditions.

·       Due to the subsidy, the initial investment is lower, which helps many homeowners or housing societies overcome the financial barrier.

Once installed, on-grid solar systems require minimal maintenance.Compared to regular monthly electricity bills, solar provides long-term cost savings.

Return on Investment (ROI): What You Can Expect

With a net investment of around ₹ 1.22 to ₹ 1.27 lakh (after subsidy), here’s how the savings and returns add up over 25 years, assuming moderate increases in electricity tariffs and some panel degradation, as per recent estimates from solar vendors in Maharashtra:

·       Over 25 years, savings from a 3 kW rooftop solar system in a city like Pune or Nagpur can reach ₹ 16 lakh or more, depending on your electricity usage, tariff hikes, net-metering benefits, and system performance.

·       This means the return on investment (ROI) is about 10 times or more over the long term.

·       Even with modest savings, you can expect to recoup your initial cost in 4 to 6 years, after which the system primarily generates savings (minus occasional maintenance).

For housing societies or multi-flat buildings: if rooftop solar is installed for common areas or shared loads, the combined savings become even more attractive — shared cost and shared benefits.

Important Considerations Before Going Solar in MaharashtraBefore deciding to install solar, keep the following in mind:

·       Choose a vendor registered with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) only authorized vendors are eligible for the PM Surya Ghar subsidy.

·       Ensure net-metering connection is set up — this guarantees that any surplus electricity generated is sent back to the grid and credited to your account. Most on-grid systems in Maharashtra support this.

·       Check roof suitability and orientation — solar panels need good sunlight exposure, minimal shading, and proper tilt for maximum efficiency.

·       Consider maintenance and cleaning — dust and pollution (common in cities) can affect system performance; regular cleaning helps keep it running efficiently.

·       Review your electricity usage pattern — if you use heavy appliances (air conditioners, geysers, or have high nighttime usage), you might need a larger system or a hybrid setup (with battery backup), which could change your costs and eligibility for subsidies.

Verdict: Why a 3 kW Solar System with Subsidy is a Smart Choice

For most homes and flats in Maharashtra — including those in housing societies — a 3 kW rooftop solar system is a low-cost, high-reward investment

1.     The subsidy brings the net cost down to around ₹ 1.22 to ₹ 1.27 lakh.

2.     Long-term energy savings can total ₹ 16 lakh or more over 25 years.

3.     You can expect to break even in under 5 to 6 years, after which the electricity is essentially free.

4.     It also provides clean, renewable energy — which is good for the environment and sustainable living.

If you are part of a housing society or planning one, going solar is not only an economically smart move but also an environmentally responsible choice.

About us:

ReNova Pulse Energy (Solar PV in Mumbai) is India's leading solar panel installation company. We are committed to helping businesses and residentials to switch to cleaner and cheaper solar solutions.