Arun Menon
Updated Dec 10, 2024 · 6 min read
One of the most common questions from homeowners considering solar is: how long does the entire process take from deciding to go solar to seeing the panels generating electricity on your roof?
The honest answer: with a certified installer and proper documentation, the entire process takes 45–75 days. Here's exactly what happens at each stage.
Quick Summary
- Total timeline: 45–75 days from registration to first generation
- KSEB feasibility approval: 15–30 days
- Physical installation: 1–3 days
- KSEB net meter installation: 15–30 days after commissioning
- Subsidy credit to bank: 30 days after net meter installation
Check Subsidy Eligibility
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Understanding the Solar Installation Process
A complete rooftop solar installation in Kerala involves five distinct phases — each with its own timeline and dependencies. Understanding these phases helps you plan your installation and set realistic expectations.
The total process takes 45–75 days from initial registration to receiving your first subsidy credit, with the physical installation itself completed in just 1–3 days.
| Phase | Stage | Typical Duration | Key Milestone |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Planning & Documentation | Days 1–7 | Proposal approved |
| 2 | KSEB Feasibility Approval | Days 7–37 | Sanction letter received |
| 3 | Procurement & Installation | Days 37–45 | System generating |
| 4 | Commissioning & Documents | Days 45–55 | KSEB certificate issued |
| 5 | Net Meter & Subsidy | Days 55–75 | Subsidy credited to bank |
The two longest phases — KSEB approval and net meter installation — are controlled by KSEB and cannot be expedited by your installer. However, choosing an experienced MNRE-certified installer with a dedicated documentation team can shorten the overall timeline by ensuring zero document rejections or resubmissions.
Homeowners who register on the PM Surya Ghar portal before selecting an installer consistently complete the process 10–15 days faster. Start your registration the same week you decide to go solar — it costs nothing and locks in your place in the KSEB approval queue.
Who Can Start the Installation Process?
Any Kerala homeowner with a valid KSEB connection can begin the solar installation process. However, you should have the following in place before proceeding:
- Active KSEB residential consumer account (LT domestic connection)
- Aadhaar-linked mobile number for PM Surya Ghar portal OTP verification
- Roof ownership or long-term lease (minimum 10 years) to justify the investment
- Minimum 15 m² of unshaded roof area, ideally south or southwest facing
- Sanctioned load of at least 1 kW from KSEB (most residential connections qualify)
Do not sign any installer contract or make any payment before receiving your feasibility sanction letter from KSEB. Any installation done before KSEB approval will be ineligible for the MNRE subsidy, even if the installer is MNRE-certified.
