Vendor installation, DISCOM approval, net metering and government subsidy are separate stages. Benefits are processed only if eligibility requirements and the scheme’s current conditions are met; a seller’s promise is not government approval.
Understand the law and process
Check the requirements for application approval, eligible capacity, registered vendors, equipment standards and commissioning documents. Do not determine a scheme’s amount or eligibility on the basis of an old advertisement. If a net meter is pending, the billing treatment of generated power may depend on state regulations and the connection status. A vendor’s shortcoming and a pending DISCOM inspection are separate grievances. If the quoted price is reduced by an upfront subsidy, the agreement should clearly state who bears the risk if the claim is rejected. Also understand the difference between estimated savings and guaranteed performance.
In detail: What factors may affect the outcome?
Keep the portal application number and the status of each stage. Obtain the invoice, warranty, equipment serial numbers and commissioning-related papers from the vendor. Clarify responsibilities for the system’s safety and maintenance. Check the contractual milestones rather than making the final payment based only on verbal assurances. For a refund or deficiency claim, show which party left which task incomplete.
What should you do?
- Verify the current eligibility requirements and process under the official scheme and with the DISCOM.
- Compare the vendor’s deliverables with the portal and inspection status.
- Submit a complaint through the responsible party’s grievance channel, specifying the pending step and providing the relevant documents.
Which documents should you keep?
Keep the application ID, vendor contract, invoice, equipment details, approvals and commissioning records.
Hypothetical example
The system has been installed, but the bank details in the subsidy application were incorrect. In another situation, the vendor did not provide a required commissioning document. Responsibility for, and the solution to, the two delays will differ.
Will installing solar always reduce the electricity bill to zero?
No. The actual bill will depend on usage, generation, tariff, fixed charges and net-metering rules.
Sources and related rules
- MNRE PM Surya Ghar scheme guidelines
- Consumer Protection Act, 2019 — complaints, unfair trade practices and remedies
- Indian Contract Act, 1872 — Sections 27, 72–74, 126–128
Editorial review: 26 October 2026. This is general legal information. The outcome may vary depending on the facts of the case, applicable state law and subsequent amendments.