Common area electricity (pumps, basement illumination, elevators, clubhouses) routinely devours 40% of an RWA’s total operational budget. With terrace space lying empty under the blazing Indian sun, rooftop solar offers guaranteed financial returns.
How Grid-Tied Net Metering Works for RWAs
A grid-tied solar system generates direct current (DC) from rooftop photovoltaic panels, which inverters convert into three-phase alternating current (AC) synchronized with the DISCOM grid.
Power generated during peak sunlight hours is consumed directly by daytime pumps and lifts. Surplus solar energy is exported back to the state electricity grid via a bidirectional Net Meter, racking up energy credits that offset high nighttime lighting bills.
Capex vs RESCO / OPEX Models
Societies typically evaluate two financial deployment models:
- CAPEX Model (Society-Owned): The society funds the equipment upfront (often using reserve funds or bank green loans). The RWA keeps 100% of the electricity savings. Payback period is typically 3 to 4 years, followed by 20+ years of virtually free electricity.
- RESCO / OPEX Model (Zero Upfront Cost): A solar energy company finances, installs, and maintains the rooftop system at their expense. The society buys the clean solar power from the developer via a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) at a discounted tariff (e.g., ₹4.50/unit vs ₹8.50 DISCOM rate) for 15 to 20 years.
Common questions
Are housing societies eligible for central government rooftop solar subsidies?
Yes. Under Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) guidelines and PM Surya Ghar schemes, Group Housing Societies (GHS) are eligible for substantial capital subsidies for common area installations up to designated capacities.
Related DGate resources for society management
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- Visitor management system for housing societies
- QR gate pass and delivery management app
- Society security and guard desk management
- RWA management software for managing committees
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