Subsidized Solar EnergyThe Solar Home System (SHS) as it is called is durable, as simple timely maintenance would keep the panel's peak productive capacity at 90 percent even after 25 years.
The only question is that of battery life, which largely depends on the charge controller, but that too would last easily for five years. The only spare that the villagers need is a florescent bulb as it may suddenly die out at any moment.
One reason for the popularity of solar energy is that people living in far away rural areas have no other choice. Another reason is the subsidies the government provides. The government is in this way attempting to promote the use of solar energy as a clean, renewable and environment friendly technology.
One reason for the popularity of solar energy is that people living in far away rural areas have no other choice. Another reason is the subsidies the government provides. The government is in this way attempting to promote the use of solar energy as a clean, renewable and environment friendly technology.
Subsidies are provided to families depending on their location (whether in accessible, remote or inaccessible rural areas) ranging between Rs. 8,000/- 10,000 ($104-$130) and 12,000/- ($156) per unit for 30 to 40 watt systems costing more than Rs. 25,000 ($325).
A 35-watt SHS costs around Rs. 25,000 to 30,000 ($325-$390) depending on the quality of the components used. 10 watts is the minimum and costs Rs. 12,000 to 16,000 ($156-$208) while a 120-watt unit costs Rs. 65,000 ($844).
A 35-watt SHS costs around Rs. 25,000 to 30,000 ($325-$390) depending on the quality of the components used. 10 watts is the minimum and costs Rs. 12,000 to 16,000 ($156-$208) while a 120-watt unit costs Rs. 65,000 ($844).