Make a decision. Who should I buy solar from?
The system price, though important, should never be the only factor for deciding an installer. Once you've gathered and compared quotes, weigh these four criteria before finalizing:
| Criterion | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Expertise and certifications | Installation quality directly affects system output, safety, and how long components last under real rooftop conditions. |
| DISCOM empanelment | Only about 1 in 10 installers are empanelled with your local DISCOM. An installer who isn't empanelled cannot process your subsidy or net metering application on your behalf — you'd need to manage that separately. |
| Reputation and feedback | Existing customer reviews reveal how an installer performs after the sale — response time for service requests, handling of warranty claims, and actual generation vs. what was promised. |
| Nearness to your address | Determines how quickly an installer can respond for service, maintenance, or warranty issues over the system's 25-year life. A distant installer may be cheaper upfront but slower or costlier to reach later. |
Why DISCOM empanelment matters more than it seems
An empanelled installer is pre-approved by your DISCOM to handle net metering and subsidy documentation directly. A non-empanelled installer may still do good installation work, but you — or a third party — will need to separately manage DISCOM approvals, which is exactly the kind of paperwork most buyers want to avoid. Confirm empanelment status before signing, not after.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a solar installer is DISCOM empanelled?
Ask the installer directly for their empanelment certificate or registration number with your local DISCOM, or check your DISCOM's or state nodal agency's published list of approved vendors (for example, HAREDA's list for Haryana DISCOMs).
Should I choose the cheapest solar installer?
Not necessarily. Price should be one factor among several — including certifications, DISCOM empanelment, warranty terms, and post-installation service reputation. The cheapest quote sometimes reflects lower-quality components or missing services like documentation support.
Why does installer proximity matter for solar?
Rooftop solar systems typically carry 25-year warranties, and issues like inverter faults, cabling problems, or net meter troubleshooting are far easier to resolve with an installer who can visit your property quickly rather than one based far away.
What happens if my installer isn't DISCOM empanelled?
Your subsidy and net metering application may need to be filed and followed up separately, since a non-empanelled installer typically cannot submit these on your behalf — adding delay and complexity to an otherwise straightforward process.
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