What a 5 kW Rooftop Solar System Could Cost and Save in India in 2026
A 5 kW rooftop solar setup in India can produce roughly 18–22 kWh per day and 540–660 kWh per month under favorable conditions, with yearly output around 6,500–8,000 kWh. Upfront cost before subsidy is estimated at ₹2.40–3.50 lakh, and eligible homes may receive up to ₹78,000 under PM Surya Ghar. Actual returns depend on local sunlight, electricity tariffs, installation price, and compensation for exported power.
A 5 kW rooftop array is rated at 5 kilowatts under standard test conditions, but real output shifts through the day. Planning figures put daily generation at 18–22 units, monthly at 540–660 units, and annual at 6,500–8,000 units. Monitored examples include about 7,175 units yearly in northern India and about 8,265 units in Rajkot.
In 2026, an illustrative grid-connected 5 kW installation is estimated at ₹2.40–3.50 lakh before subsidy. Eligible residential users may get up to ₹78,000 under PM Surya Ghar. Returns vary with local sun, shading, equipment efficiency, tariffs, installation quotes and export compensation.
For households with high daytime electricity use, a 5 kW system could lower monthly bills and shorten payback, while those with low daytime demand or weak export compensation may see slower returns.The upfront ₹2.40–3.50 lakh outlay may limit access for some families, even with subsidy. Local installers and the grid could face greater demand for quality installation, net metering and maintenance.