Solar Power Run ACs in India: With India’s scorching summers, air conditioners (ACs) are no longer a luxury they’re a necessity. But the rising electricity bills have made many homeowners ask: Can solar power run ACs in India reliably and cost-effectively?
The short answer is yes. With the right solar system size, you can run your AC on solar energy and even save thousands on electricity bills every year. In this article, we’ll break down cost, performance, case studies, ROI, and subsidy options to help you decide whether going solar for your AC makes sense in 2025.
Can Solar Power Run ACs in India?
Yes. A properly sized on-grid or hybrid solar system can easily run one or multiple ACs. For example:
- 1.5-ton AC: Needs around 1.5–2 units per hour of electricity.
- Solar Requirement: About 1.5–2 kW solar capacity for every 1.5-ton AC (if used 6–8 hours/day).
So, if you have 2 ACs (1.5 ton each), you may need a 3–5 kW solar system, depending on usage patterns.
How Much Does It Cost to Run ACs on Solar in India?
The cost depends on the solar system capacity:
| Solar System Size | AC Support Capacity | Approx. Price (before subsidy) | Price After Subsidy (Residential) | Avg. Savings / Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2kW | 1 × 1.5-ton AC (6 hrs/day) | ₹1.4 – 1.6 lakh | ₹1.0 – 1.2 lakh | ₹15,000 – 18,000 |
| 3kW | 1–2 ACs (6–8 hrs/day) | ₹1.8 – 2.2 lakh | ₹1.3 – 1.6 lakh | ₹22,000 – 28,000 |
| 5kW | 2–3 ACs (daily use) | ₹3.2 – 3.6 lakh | ₹2.4 – 2.8 lakh | ₹40,000 – 50,000 |
| 10kW | 4–5 ACs + household load | ₹7.5 – 8.5 lakh | ₹6.7 – 7.7 lakh (some states offer extra subsidy) | ₹80,000 – 1,00,000 |
💡 Prices vary slightly by brand, location, and DISCOM policies.
Real-Life Case Studies
Case Study 1: Jaipur Family Running 2 ACs on Solar
- System: 5kW on-grid solar system
- Cost: ₹3.3 lakh (after subsidy)
- Appliances Powered: 2 × 1.5-ton ACs + lights, fans, fridge
- Bill Savings: From ₹8,000/month → reduced to ₹1,200/month
- ROI: Payback in 4.2 years
Case Study 2: Bangalore Apartment with 1 AC
- System: 2kW hybrid system (with lithium battery backup)
- Cost: ₹1.5 lakh (limited subsidy due to hybrid)
- Appliances Powered: 1 × 1.5-ton AC + essentials during power cuts
- Bill Savings: ~₹1,200/month + backup during outages
- ROI: 6 years (higher cost due to battery)
Case Study 3: Delhi Shop Owner Using AC for Business
- System: 10kW on-grid system
- Cost: ₹7.8 lakh (business not eligible for subsidy)
- Appliances Powered: 3 ACs, lights, computers
- Bill Savings: ~₹90,000 per year
- ROI: 7–8 years (businesses benefit from accelerated depreciation tax benefits).
ROI & Payback Period
Most homeowners recover their solar investment in 4–6 years when using ACs daily. After that, you enjoy free cooling for 15+ years.
Example:
- A 3kW system costs ~₹1.6 lakh (after subsidy).
- Runs 1–2 ACs + household load.
- Saves ₹25,000/year on bills.
- Payback: 5–6 years.
- Lifetime Savings (20 years): ₹5–6 lakh.
Factors That Affect Solar Performance for ACs
- Location: States with high sunshine (Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra) generate 10–15% more solar power.
- System Type: On-grid is most cost-effective; hybrid/off-grid adds battery costs.
- Appliance Efficiency: Using inverter ACs improves performance and reduces system size requirements.
- Net Metering: Lets you export excess units and adjust against your bill.
Government Subsidy for Running ACs on Solar (2025)
Under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, households can get subsidies on rooftop solar:
- Up to 3kW: ₹30,000–₹60,000
- 3kW–10kW: Subsidy slab reduces per kW
- Above 10kW: Limited subsidy
Check with your DISCOM for exact rates and apply through the National Portal for Rooftop Solar (pmsuryaghar.gov.in).
FAQs on Solar Power Run ACs in India
Can solar panels run ACs directly without electricity bills?
Yes, if your solar system is large enough and you have net metering. However, during the night, ACs will draw power from the grid unless you use batteries.
How many solar panels are required for 1.5-ton AC?
1.5-ton inverter AC needs 6–8 panels of 400W each, depending on usage hours.
Is it better to use inverter AC with solar?
Yes. Inverter ACs consume 30–40% less electricity, making them more compatible with solar systems.
Can solar run ACs during power cuts?
Only hybrid or off-grid systems with batteries can run ACs during outages. On-grid systems shut down when the grid is off for safety reasons.
What is the lifespan of a solar system running ACs?
Solar panels last 20–25 years, while inverters last 8–10 years. Lithium batteries (if used) last 8–12 years.
Conclusion
Yes, solar power can absolutely run ACs in India and not only that, it makes financial sense. Whether you’re a homeowner in Jaipur, an apartment resident in Bangalore, or a shopkeeper in Delhi, solar can cut your cooling costs dramatically while reducing dependence on the grid.
With subsidies, falling solar prices, and net metering, 2025 is the right time to run your ACs on solar.
