On-Grid vs Off-Grid Solar Systems – Which One Should You Choose?
If you're considering installing a rooftop solar system, you've probably heard the terms on-grid and off-grid. But what's the difference, and which one is right for your home or business in Delhi NCR, Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Varanasi or Gorakhpur?
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
🔌 What is an On-Grid Solar System?
An on-grid solar system is connected to the electricity grid. It generates solar power during the day and uses grid electricity at night or when your usage exceeds generation.
✅ Eligible for subsidy under PM Surya Ghar Yojana
✅ No batteries needed – lower cost
✅ Electricity bill gets reduced through net metering
✅ Perfect for urban homes and offices
Best for:
- Cities with reliable electricity (like Delhi NCR & UP towns)
- People who want maximum savings and subsidy
🔋 What is an Off-Grid Solar System?
An off-grid system works independently of the main electricity grid. It stores solar energy in batteries, so you can use it anytime—even during power cuts.
✅ Works in remote/rural areas
✅ Useful where grid supply is irregular
❌ Not eligible for central subsidy
❌ More expensive due to battery cost
Best for:
- Remote homes/farms
- Areas with frequent or long power cuts
On-Grid vs Off-Grid – Quick Comparison:
Grid Connection
- On-Grid: Connected to the main electricity grid
- Off-Grid: Works independently of the grid
🔹 Batteries Required
- On-Grid: ❌ Not required
- Off-Grid: ✅ Required for storage
🔹 Subsidy Eligibility
- On-Grid: ✅ Eligible for ₹78,000 (central) + ₹30,000 (state – Delhi/UP)
- Off-Grid: ❌ Not eligible for subsidy
🔹 Cost
- On-Grid: Lower, ₹1.99–2.10 lakh (₹91,000–1,02,000 after subsidy)
- Off-Grid: Higher, ₹2.5–3.2 lakh (no subsidy)
🔹 Ideal For
- On-Grid: Urban areas like Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Varanasi, etc.
- Off-Grid: Rural/remote locations with frequent power cuts
🔹 Maintenance
- On-Grid: Minimal
- Off-Grid: Higher (battery maintenance)
Cost & Subsidy
For a 3 kW on-grid system, the typical cost is ₹1.99–2.10 lakh.
After subsidy:
- Central Subsidy: ₹78,000
- Delhi/UP Subsidy: ₹30,000
- Final Cost: ₹91,000–1,02,000 ✅
Off-grid systems of same capacity can cost ₹2.5–3.2 lakh and no subsidy is available.
🏠 So, Which One Should You Choose?
- ✅ If you live in Delhi NCR, Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Varanasi, or Gorakhpur, go for an on-grid system – more cost-effective, low maintenance, and fully subsidized under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana.
- ⚡ If you live in a remote or off-grid area, an off-grid system may be suitable—but expect higher upfront costs.
📞 Need Expert Guidance?
Verde Solaire Pvt. Ltd. is a trusted, government-registered solar EPC provider under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana in both Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.
We provide:
- Free consultation & site visit
- End-to-end installation
- Complete support with subsidy process
💬 Contact us today to find the right solar solution for your home and start saving on your electricity bills!
