Rooftop solar energy is rapidly becoming an increasingly popular way for homes to control their energy demand in Assam. Power supply remains unreliable, energy rates are increasing, and more homeowners are tapping into Assam’s potential to produce trustworthy, clean energy from their rooftops. Solar development in this climate, aside from the rainy season, is especially productive due to recent advances in technology and the moderate levels of sunlight.
The advantages of solar energy in Assam extend beyond merely reducing electricity bills. Solar energy for homes in Assam adds energy independence and limits fossil fuel use, leading to cleaner air. Altogether, these benefits make rooftop solar a logical and sustainable alternative to energy consumption for individuals interested in being prudent about energy use.
Assam’s Climate: A Hidden Asset for Solar Energy
When one thinks of solar energy in Assam’s weather, the concerns typically revolve around the monsoon season, lasting for several months. It is actually true that Assam receives around 2000 to 3000 mm of rain per annum spread over months. But this factor is often overstated at the cost of a stronger variable, which is that Assam has years of strong sunshine during the remainder of the year.
From October to May, Assam enjoys longer days, clear skies, and steady sunshine, a reality that is out for the way to charge solar panels’ sun-loving conditions. Even during the monsoon, panels continue to charge just at a slower production rate, even if the sky is cloudy. Light still penetrates the clouds, and new panels are made to absorb diffuse light really well. So, the solar system doesn’t shut down on cloudy days; it just keeps powering your house like your phone charger still charges your phone when it is low on battery.
What can you say is concurrently a true shocker with Assam’s relentless rains? It is, of course, washing the panel! Dust, bird droppings and pollution reduce solar performance, but the frequent rain showers keep your panels clear, meaning less maintenance
Reasons Rooftop Solar in Assam Makes Total Sense
1. Reduce Your Power Bill
If your energy bill has been rising month after month, you are not alone. In most households, you are likely using more gadgets, more air conditioners, or are more reliant on electric appliances than in years past, which means you are using more energy. With a Rooftop Solar power system, you can begin generating your own energy and rely less on what is provided by the grid.
Once the system is installed and running, every kilowatt of solar power generated is another kilowatt that you do not have to pay the utility for. For most households, that is money saved that will add up over months and years. In the first year alone, many households realize a 50% or more reduction in their power bill. And as you will see in subsequent points, as utility rates increase, your energy savings will as well!
2. Relief from Power Outages
Power outages are not unusual in Assam, particularly during times of storms and extreme summer temperatures. For families with children, students, or elderly individuals at home, the inconveniences of a blackout can be more than an inconvenience.
By using a rooftop solar system along with battery storage, you now have peace of mind with reliable backup. You can run any combination of your lighting, fan, internet router, and even your fridge without any utility. The capacity to yield clean energy while off the grid can be a giant leap, not only into energy independence but also peace of mind.
3. Future-Ready, green, and clean
Installing solar panels is not just good for your wallet; it is great for the Earth. By switching to solar power, you reduce your reliance on fossil fuels, which lowers your carbon footprint, decreases pollution, and contributes to a cleaner, healthier Assam.
Just consider it, a typical 3kW of rooftop solar system offsets the carbon equivalent of planting over 100 trees each year. It is a subtle but effective way to combat climate change, right from your own roof.
Insight into Assam’s Solar Potential
Comprehending the Solar Potential of Assam. Let’s consider the factors that make Assam a valuable opportunity for solar energy.
The state experiences daily solar radiation of between, on average, 4.5 and 5.5 kWh per square metre. In other words, there is more than enough sunshine on your roof to produce substantial electricity, even if it is cloudy at times. Secondly, Assam has a favourable geography.
There are many flat roofs and open terraces available in many towns and cities, including Guwahati and Silchar, for the installation of solar panels. There is no need for large land areas for solar energy; your small rooftop or open terrace will easily suffice.
While the high humidity may raise concerns, contemporary solar panels are built to accommodate both heat and moisture. With the right installation, you won’t have to think about rust or other water damage. Installers will also locate your panels to receive the maximum amount of sunlight (without being shaded by trees or a neighbouring building).
What About the Rain?
Let’s take a moment to address the elephant in the room: the lengthy and heavy monsoon in Assam. I know the output of solar systems can be lower when it rains, sometimes as low as 20–40% of the maximum production. But that doesn’t mean solar is any less valuable.
That’s because the rest of the year more than balances out this loss. From late September to May, solar production will be high! Usually, during these months, you will produce more than you need to use, offsetting the lower production during the monsoon season.
Plus, with net metering (which allows you to send any excess energy back to the grid), you will be able to collect credits to use at a later time – further balancing your energy consumption.
Debunking Myths about Solar in Assam
If you’re still unsure whether to go solar, you have undoubtedly heard some myths about solar panels. Let’s bust or dispel those myths.
Myth: Solar panels don’t work when it’s cloudy.
Incorrect. Solar panel systems work off light, not only direct sunlight. On cloudy days, you still receive diffuse light that allows the solar panel system to create electricity, but at a reduced level.
Myth: Solar panels will be damaged by heat or storms.
Quality panels are built to withstand heavy rain, extreme humidity, and heat. Quality installers also use sturdy mounts designed to withstand storm-force winds, especially an installer who has achieved certification.
Myth: Solar is too expensive.
While the upfront price may seem high, it is a one-time expense for a long-term advantage. With government rebate programs and net metering, most solar systems in Assam pay for themselves in 5-7 years. Once you get to that point, your electricity is essentially free for the next 15+ years.
Myth: It is too complicated to put up.
Not. Once you find the right installer, they will do it all, rooftop survey and system design, procurement of materials, installation, and any government approval processes. You sit back, relax, and get ready to save!
Things To Consider Before Installing Rooftop Solar in Assam
Before making the leap, there are a few points to consider. First, study your electricity bill for the last several months. If you consume 300-500 units per month, a 3 to 5 kW solar electric system could supply the majority of that consumption for the year.
Next, review your rooftop. Is it shaded by trees? Does it receive direct sunlight for 4 to 5 hours each day? Rarely does a flat roof or a very low-sloped roof work. Solar panels are typically facing south to capture the most sun throughout the day.
It is also good to understand how your net metering will work. In Assam, if you generate more power than you consume, you can send it back to the grid and be compensated. If you are compensated for sending solar energy back to gain credits, it will further mitigate your monthly electric bill.
Finally, opt for quality. It’s cheaper at first, but lower-performing solar’s will cost you more in the future for maintenance and lower efficiencies. Ultimately, due diligence on the panels passed the certification that they could cope with the climate and efficiency. You should have a reputable inverter and an approved installer.
Real-Life Benefits from Solar Homes in Assam
Many individuals across Assam are already switching over to Solar, and they love it.
In Guwahati, a small family invested in a 4 kW rooftop system. Prior to their solar transition, they were spending an average of ₹3,500 a month on power bills. Now, it is less than ₹500 a month! They are using those extra savings to invest in their children’s education.
In Dibrugarh, a retired couple invested in solar with battery storage. They were tired of power outages during the summer months. Because of solar, they can always run their fridge, fans, and lights, whatever happens with the power grid.
Solar is gaining a foothold even in smaller towns like Jorhat and Tezpur! Schools, clinics and small businesses are now utilizing solar not just to save money, but to act as an example of sustainability.
Financial Support and Subsidies
One of the best things about going solar in Assam is that you do not have to do it all alone. The governmental authorities provide you with generous grants under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana scheme and other schemes started by the government of India.
The grants aid up to 40% of the offline installation costs for small systems, and it depends on the usage of the residence and the size of the solar panel system. Additionally, net metering policies in Assam allow you to export excess power back to the grid, thereby lowering your electricity bill gets lower even further.
All the financial schemes can work together to make rooftop solar an achievable and affordable option, even for middle-class families.
Conclusion
Rooftop solar in Assam isn’t just advisable, it’s the perfect solution to the state’s unique climate, growing energy demands, and sustainability objectives. Whether it’s reducing electricity bills or providing comfort during the state’s frequent power outages, the advantages of solar energy in Assam are evident and long-lasting.
Solar Prabha is Assam’s trusted solar partner that strives to provide and install high-quality solar systems that are customized to meet the needs of the region. If you are looking for credible ways to power your home or business sustainably and would like to speak to someone knowledgeable, please reach out to us at +91-7099030047 or stop by the office in Guwahati.