Common Solar Scams in India — And How to Avoid Them

The solar industry in India is booming — and that’s great news!More people are realizing that switching to solar is not just eco-friendly but also one of the smartest financial decisions they can make. 🌱

But where there’s growth, there’s also… greed.

As the demand for solar energy rises, so do the number of fraudulent installers, fake products, and misleading offers that trap innocent customers.If you’re planning to install solar panels on your rooftop, being aware of these scams can save you not just money — but peace of mind too.

Let’s uncover the most common solar scams in India and how you can avoid getting caught in them.

1. The “Too-Good-To-Be-True” Subsidy Offer

You might have seen ads saying —

“Get 80% subsidy from the government!”“Free solar panel installation with instant subsidy approval!”

Sounds amazing, right? Unfortunately, it’s a trap.

The truth:Government subsidies for rooftop solar are real but they are fixed, limited, and processed through official portals like the National Rooftop Solar Portal (solarrooftop.gov.in).

If anyone asks you to pay “extra” to speed up your subsidy approval, it’s a red flag.

How to Avoid It:Always verify subsidy details directly from official MNRE or DISCOM websites. Never trust unverified agents or links claiming 80–100% subsidy.

2. Fake or Low-Quality Solar Panels Sold as Premium Brands

Some vendors replace certified, branded panels with cheap local duplicates that look identical but perform poorly and degrade quickly.

You think you’re buying a top brand — but you end up with a panel that fails in two years.

How to Avoid It:

• Check if the panels have a BIS certification mark.

• Always ask for the original invoice and warranty card directly from the manufacturer.

• Prefer working with MNRE-approved vendors like Ikaya Earth, who use trusted Tier-1 brands only.

🧾 3. Hidden Costs After Installation

Another common trick: a vendor quotes you a low price — but later adds “extra wiring,” “DC box charges,” or “labour fees” once the installation starts.

By the time your system is complete, the cost has almost doubled.

How to Avoid It:

• Ask for a detailed quotation mentioning all components (panels, inverter, cables, labour, mounting structures, etc.).

• Clarify in writing that the price is all-inclusive before paying any advance.

4. Fake Net Metering or “Quick Approval” Promises

Some companies claim they can get you “net metering approval in 2 days” — often by charging an extra fee.

In reality, net metering approval is handled by your state DISCOM, not private agents.No one can “fast-track” it illegally.

How to Avoid It:Always apply through your official DISCOM portal or via a registered vendor who follows legal procedures.

5. False Generation or ROI Claims

“Your 3kW system will generate ₹5,000 every month guaranteed!” — sounds tempting, right?

But in truth, generation depends on sunlight hours, roof angle, system design, and maintenance.Fake promises of unrealistic ROI often end in disappointment.

How to Avoid It:Ask your installer for a shadow analysis and generation report based on your actual site.A professional company will give you a realistic generation estimate, not just numbers that sound good.

6. No After-Sales Support

Many low-cost solar installers disappear once the payment is done.When something breaks or needs servicing — you’re left on your own.

How to Avoid It:Choose an installer who offers AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract) and has a proper customer support team.Ask clearly about service response time before finalizing the deal.

The Safe Way Forward

Solar energy is one of the best investments you can make — if done right.The right partner ensures your system gives you peace of mind, not panic calls.

At Ikaya Earth, transparency and trust come first: ✔ MNRE-approved components ✔ End-to-end support — from site visit to installation ✔ Real savings, not false promises

Go solar the smart way. 🌱Choose verified, choose reliable — choose Ikaya Earth.