India Adds 2.7 GW Rooftop Solar in Q1 2026, Residential Segment at 82%
Residential Dominance Reshapes the Market
India installed 2.7 GW of rooftop solar in Q1 2026, with the residential segment contributing an unprecedented 82% of total capacity. This marks a decisive shift from the commercial and industrial (C&I) dominance that characterised rooftop solar for the past decade. The PM Surya Ghar subsidy scheme is the primary catalyst, with accelerated DISCOM approvals and a growing network of empanelled installers driving volumes.
Average residential system sizes have stabilised at 3-4 kW, aligning with subsidy sweet spots. States with proactive net metering policies, particularly Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra, account for over half of Q1 additions.
C&I Segment Holds Steady
While residential installations surged, the C&I rooftop segment contributed approximately 480 MW in Q1 — a modest but stable figure. Open access and group net metering regulations continue to support larger commercial installations, though policy uncertainty in some states has slowed decision-making.
For Buyers
Residential buyers benefit from competitive pricing driven by volume growth. Inverter and panel availability is strong, with domestic manufacturing capacity now exceeding demand for standard configurations. Buyers should verify their installer's DISCOM empanelment status and confirm net metering timelines before signing contracts, as processing times vary significantly by state.