The Three Types of Rooftop Solar Systems
If you've started researching solar in Gurgaon, you've probably come across three terms: on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid. Each works differently and suits different needs. Here's an honest breakdown.
On-Grid Solar (Grid-Tied)
How it works: Your solar panels generate electricity and feed it directly into your home. Any surplus is exported to the DHBVN/UHBVN grid via net metering. When your panels aren't generating enough (at night, cloudy days), you draw from the grid as normal.
Pros:
- Lowest cost — no batteries needed
- Maximum PM Surya Ghar subsidy (up to ₹78,000)
- Fastest payback period (typically 3–4 years in Gurgaon)
- Net metering credits reduce your bill further
- No power during grid outages (safety requirement)
- Dependent on discom for net metering approval
Off-Grid Solar
How it works: Panels charge a battery bank. Your home runs off the batteries. No grid connection at all.
Pros:
- Complete energy independence
- Works in areas with no or poor grid access
- Significantly more expensive (batteries are costly)
- Not eligible for PM Surya Ghar subsidy
- Batteries degrade and need replacement every 5–8 years
- Requires larger panel array to charge batteries
Hybrid Solar
How it works: Connected to both the grid and a battery bank. During the day, panels charge your batteries and power your home. Batteries provide backup during outages. Excess goes to the grid.
Pros:
- Power during grid outages — the big advantage in Gurgaon
- Eligible for partial subsidy (panels qualify, batteries don't)
- Best of both worlds
- Higher upfront cost than on-grid (₹1–2 lakh more for batteries)
- More complex system and maintenance
Which Should You Choose?
| Your SituationRecommended System |
|---|
| Stable grid, want lowest costOn-Grid | |
|---|---|
| Frequent power cuts in your area | Hybrid |
| Remote property / no grid | Off-Grid |
| Want maximum subsidy | On-Grid |
| Business with critical uptime needs | Hybrid |