How to choose a solar vendor (without getting burned)
The panels last 25 years; a bad installer relationship lasts about as long. Price matters less than most buyers think, structure quality, warranty honesty, and service presence matter more. Use this checklist against every quote.
At a glance, 10-second read
- ▸Only portal-registered vendors can do a subsidy-eligible install, verify on pmsuryaghar.gov.in yourself.
- ▸Get 2-3 itemised quotes; compare panel model, inverter, structure, not just price.
- ▸Benchmarks: 25-30yr panel performance warranty, 5-10yr inverter warranty, 5yr workmanship.
- ▸The subsidy comes to your bank account, anyone who says otherwise is a red flag.
The 8-point vendor checklist
1Portal-empanelled with your DISCOM
Only vendors registered on the PM Surya Ghar portal for your DISCOM can do a subsidy-eligible install. Verify on the portal's vendor list yourself, don't take the vendor's word for it.
2ALMM-listed, DCR-compliant panels
Ask for the exact panel model number and check it against MNRE's ALMM list. For the subsidy, cells and modules must both be made in India (DCR). Get this in writing on the quote.
3Itemised quote, not a lump sum
A comparable quote lists panels (brand, model, wattage, count), inverter (brand, model), mounting structure (material, wind rating), cabling, earthing, lightning arrestor, meter charges, and GST, separately.
4Warranty terms in writing
Benchmark: 25-30 years panel performance warranty, 10-12 years panel product warranty, 5-10 years inverter warranty, and at least 5 years free service on workmanship (leaks, loose structures, wiring).
5Local service presence
An inverter fault in year 4 needs someone who answers the phone. Prefer vendors with a service office in your district and ask for 2-3 customer references from your area, at least a year old.
6Realistic generation promise
Honest vendors quote ~4 units/kW/day average (higher in Rajasthan/Gujarat, lower in cloudy regions). Anyone promising 6+ units/kW/day year-round is overselling.
7No subsidy games
The subsidy comes to YOUR bank account via DBT. A vendor asking you to sign it over, or quoting a 'subsidy-adjusted price' contingent on paperwork they control, is a red flag.
8Structure quality
Galvanised iron or aluminium structure rated for local wind speeds, with proper roof waterproofing at anchor points. Cheap structures are the most common cause of year-2 regrets.
Red flags, walk away
- ✕Quote is dramatically below market (under ~₹45,000/kW installed), corners are being cut on structure, cabling, or panel authenticity.
- ✕Won't share the exact panel/inverter model numbers before booking.
- ✕Pressure to pay a large advance (>20-30%) before feasibility approval.
- ✕Promises to 'handle' the subsidy for a fee, the portal process is designed to be done by you.
- ✕No mention of earthing or lightning protection in the quote.
- ✕Refuses a written commissioning + service agreement.
Six questions to ask before signing
- 1.Which exact panel model will you install, and where is it on the ALMM list?
- 2.Who manufactures the inverter and who services it in this district?
- 3.What is the structure material and its wind-speed rating?
- 4.How is roof waterproofing handled at mounting points, and is it warranted?
- 5.What is included in free maintenance, and for how long?
- 6.Can you share three customers in this area whose systems are over a year old?
Know your fair price first
Before talking to vendors, know your recommended system size, subsidy, and a benchmark cost, so you can spot an inflated quote instantly.