Guide · Updated September 2026
3 kW solar system: cost, subsidy & generation
The short answer
A 3 kW grid-connected rooftop solar system in India costs roughly ₹1,74,000 installed in 2026. The PM Surya Ghar central subsidy brings this to about ₹96,000 net. It generates 330–390 units per month, which suits typical 2–3 BHK families with ₹3,000–4,500 bills, including one air conditioner in summer.
What a 3 kW system costs
At the 2026 benchmark of about ₹58,000 per kW installed, a 3 kW grid-connected system — panels, inverter, mounting structure, wiring and installation — lands around ₹1,74,000 before subsidy. Tier-1 metro quotes run 5–10% higher; smaller towns often come in lower. Insist on an itemised quote: panel brand and wattage, inverter brand, structure (GI vs MS), cable runs and lightning arrester should all be listed separately.
Subsidy you receive
Under PM Surya Ghar, residential systems get ₹30,000 per kW up to 2 kW plus ₹18,000 for the 3rd kW, capped at ₹78,000. For a 3 kW system that is ₹78,000, paid directly to your bank account after your DISCOM commissions the system — not deducted by the installer upfront. Anyone offering to “adjust the subsidy in the quote” is hiding the real price.
What it powers and saves
A 3 kW system generates roughly 330–390 units a month, which suits typical 2–3 BHK families with ₹3,000–4,500 bills, including one air conditioner in summer. At ₹7/unit, that is a serious dent in the monthly bill — and because tariffs rise about 4% a year, the avoided cost compounds across the 25-year panel life.
Run your own numbers
Guides give you the rules; the calculator gives you your numbers. One input — your monthly bill.
Open the calculatorFAQ
How much roof area does a 3 kW system need?
About 270–300 sq ft of shadow-free roof, including clearance between panel rows.
What is the payback period for a 3 kW system?
Typically 3–5 years depending on your state tariff and self-consumption. Run your actual bill through the calculator on the home page for a precise figure.
Is a 3 kW system big enough for my home?
Typical 2–3 BHK families with ₹3,000–4,500 bills, including one air conditioner in summer — that is the honest fit. If your bill is much larger, size up; oversizing beyond your consumption rarely pays under net metering.