Top Solar Energy FAQs for Businesses in India

Commonly Asked Questions About Solar Energy in India and Their Answers by Sun Photonics Pvt. Ltd.

Switching to solar energy is a significant decision for any business, and at Sun Photonics Pvt. Ltd., we aim to make the transition as seamless as possible. We understand that business owners often have questions about the feasibility, benefits, and processes involved in adopting solar power. Below, we’ve compiled some of the most commonly asked questions and their answers to help you make an informed choice.

General Questions

  1. What are the benefits of installing solar energy systems for my business?

Solar energy reduces electricity costs, ensures energy independence, and helps your business meet sustainability goals while providing long-term savings.

  1. How does solar energy help reduce electricity costs?

Solar systems generate energy from sunlight, significantly lowering your dependence on grid power and reducing monthly electricity bills.

  1. Is solar energy reliable for industrial or commercial use?

Yes, modern solar systems are highly reliable and can efficiently meet businesses' energy needs, even when there is a high demand.

  1. What is the ROI (Return on Investment) on a solar energy installation?

ROI typically ranges from 20-25% annually, and most businesses recover their investment within 4-6 years.

  1. How long does it take to break even after installing solar panels?

The break-even period depends on the system size and energy usage but generally ranges between 4 to 7 years.



Installation and Maintenance

  1. What is the difference between rooftop and ground-mounted solar systems?

Rooftop solar systems are installed on buildings, saving space, while ground-mounted systems are installed on open land, suitable for large-scale projects.

  1. How much roof or land space is required for a solar installation?

Approximately 100 sq. ft. is needed for every 1 kW of solar panels installed.

  1. What are the steps involved in installing a solar energy system?

Steps include a site assessment, system design, obtaining approvals, installation, and commissioning.

  1. How do I know if my building is suitable for solar energy?

If your building has shadow-free roof space and high daytime energy usage, it is suitable for solar installation.

  1. What is the lifespan of solar panels, and how often do they need maintenance?

Solar panels last 25+ years with minimal maintenance, typically requiring cleaning once a month and annual inspections.


Cost and Financing

  1. How much does a solar energy system cost for a business?

Costs vary based on the system size and type but generally range between ₹40,000 to ₹60,000 per kW for commercial systems.

  1. What are the available financing options for solar energy installations?

Sun Photonics offers CAPEX solar model (ownership model) and OPEX solar model (pay-as-you-use model) financing options.

  1. Can I get loans or subsidies for installing solar panels in India?

Yes, businesses can avail of bank loans and government subsidies under schemes like KUSUM and other state-specific incentives.

  1. Does the government provide tax benefits or incentives for using solar energy?

Yes, businesses can benefit from accelerated depreciation and GST exemptions on solar equipment.

  1. What is the difference between CAPEX and OPEX models in solar energy?

CAPEX involves owning the system, while OPEX allows you to lease the system with no upfront investment.


Technical and Performance

  1. How much energy can a solar system generate for my business?

A 1 kW system can generate approximately 4-5 kWh (units) per day, depending on location and sunlight availability.

  1. What happens if my solar panels generate more energy than I need?

Excess energy can be exported to the grid through net metering, earning you credits on your electricity bill.

  1. Can solar systems work during cloudy or rainy weather?

Yes, solar panels still generate some energy under diffused sunlight, though output may be lower.

  1. What are on-grid and off-grid solar systems, and which is better for businesses?

On-grid systems are connected to the grid and are ideal for businesses; off-grid systems are independent and require battery storage.

  1. Can solar energy be combined with energy storage solutions?

Yes, battery storage can be integrated to store excess energy for use during nighttime or power outages.


Regulatory and Environmental

  1. What are the government policies or regulations for solar energy in India?

Policies like net metering, renewable purchase obligations (RPO), and subsidies promote solar adoption for businesses.

  1. Do I need any permissions to install solar panels for my business?

Yes, approvals may be required for grid-connected systems, which Sun Photonics handles as part of our service.

  1. How does switching to solar energy impact my business's carbon footprint?

Solar energy significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, helping your business contribute to environmental sustainability.

  1. Are there renewable energy certificates (RECs) for businesses using solar energy?

Yes, businesses generating renewable energy can trade RECs to meet compliance and earn additional revenue.

  1. What role does solar energy play in meeting sustainability goals for businesses?

Solar energy aligns with global ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards, making your business eco-friendly and socially responsible.


Maintenance and Support

  1. What happens if there’s a problem with my solar energy system?

Sun Photonics provides integrated Operation & Maintenance to resolve any issues promptly.

  1. Do solar companies provide after-sales support and warranties?

Yes, Most companies offer warranties on panels (up to 25 years) and inverters (5-10 years), along with ongoing support.

  1. What kind of warranties are provided on solar panels and inverters?

Solar panels come with performance and product warranties, while inverters typically have 5-10 years of coverage.

  1. How do I monitor the performance of my solar energy system?

Systems come with monitoring tools or apps that provide real-time performance data and analytics.

  1. How do I ensure my solar system operates efficiently over the years?

Regular cleaning, periodic inspections, and timely servicing are essential to maintaining efficiency.

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