Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (Mahavitaran) has reduced the approved price for rooftop solar installations to Rs45,450 per kilowatt (kW), representing a reduction that yields savings of Rs15,000 for consumers on typical one kW systems. The pricing revision complements the central government scheme Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSMBY), which provides direct subsidies of Rs30,000 for one kW, Rs60,000 for two kW and Rs78,000 for three kW systems. Officials said the combined effect of the revised rate and central assistance improves the affordability of residential solar.

A standard one kW rooftop solar system typically generates around 120 units per month and for many small households this output can match or exceed monthly electricity consumption, potentially reducing bills to zero. Surplus generation can be exported to the grid under net metering arrangements with Mahavitaran, enabling consumers to receive payments for excess supply. The Maharashtra government is also extending additional state assistance under the SMART scheme to support below poverty line and economically weaker section consumers.

The cost rationalisation coincides with steady expansion of rooftop solar in the state, with rooftop capacity surpassing five gigawatt (GW) as of January 2025 and forming a significant share of the overall installed solar base of 19.1 GW. By lowering installation costs and ensuring vendor transparency through published empanelment lists on its official website and the SMART portal, Mahavitaran intends to accelerate adoption across residential categories. The SMART rooftop solar subsidy scheme includes grants of up to 95 per cent for low income households that consume less than 100 units of electricity per month.

The revised pricing framework is expected to deepen rooftop solar penetration particularly among small and economically weaker consumers by improving payback periods and reducing upfront barriers to entry. Wider adoption is likely to be supported by clearer vendor lists and the interaction of central and state subsidies with the new price point. Policymakers and distribution planners anticipate that the measures will strengthen the transition to distributed renewable generation across the state.