Make the specification comparable
Ask each installer for module quantity and wattage, exact module and inverter models, AC rating, mounting details, protections and cable scope. ‘Premium panels’ is not a specification. Identify taxes, transport, civil work and utility charges so a low headline price does not hide a different scope. Record each answer in the installer and quote checklist.
Separate promises from contract terms
Generation and savings forecasts depend on assumptions. Product warranty, performance warranty and workmanship cover different risks. Ask who pays for diagnosis, removal, transport and reinstallation during a claim. Record service contacts and escalation rather than relying on a verbal ‘everything is covered’ statement.
Know when money changes hands
Agree milestones tied to defined work, the documents supplied at handover, cancellation/refund terms and how variations are approved. Ask who funds the installation if a subsidy payment is delayed or eligibility fails. Retain the final signed version, receipts and any agreed changes.
Two quotations, compared on the same basis
| Item | Quote A | Quote B | What to ask |
|---|---|---|---|
| Modules | 'Premium mono panels, 3 kW' | Exact model, wattage and quantity listed | Model, wattage and DCR evidence in writing |
| Inverter | Brand only | Model and AC rating listed | Datasheet and AC rating |
| Mounting structure | 'Standard structure' | Material, height and fixing method stated | Who is responsible for roof waterproofing |
| Protection and earthing | Not mentioned | Listed with the cable scope | Items left out often return as extras |
| Net meter and DISCOM charges | Excluded, in small print | Included, or stated as payable at actual cost | The full amount you will pay |
| Taxes | Extra | Included | Compare totals including tax |
| Warranty and service | '25-year warranty' | Product, performance, workmanship and service terms listed separately | What each warranty covers and who pays during a claim |
| Payments | Large advance at booking | Milestones tied to delivery, installation and commissioning | Tie each payment to defined work |
Quote A and Quote B are invented to show the method; no real installer or price is described. Once you add the items Quote A leaves out, its lower headline may not be lower. Record the answers in the installer and quote checklist.
Compare the scope before the headline price
| Check | What to clarify |
|---|---|
| Equipment | Exact models, quantities, permitted substitutions |
| Installed scope | Structure, safety, civil work, metering, exclusions |
| Aftercare | Warranty holder, claim costs, response contact |
A useful definition
- Balance of system (BOS)
- Supporting components such as mounting, wiring and protection beyond the modules; ask for the exact included scope.
A common question
Is a per-kW price enough to compare?
Only after aligning capacity, equipment and included work. Ask for a complete written scope and full price before grants, then compare it with the indicative cost range for the same size.
Sources for this guide
UPNEDA / MNRE
Model consumer–vendor agreement
Written equipment, price, responsibilities, maintenance and service terms. Adapt to the actual contract.
Checked: Rules can changeUPNEDA / MNRE
Rooftop technical specifications
Module, inverter, structure, protection and metering scope to discuss with the installer.
Checked: Rules can changeMNRE
Residential CFA operational guidelines · §§5–6
Standard rates, household/GHS eligibility, DCR and payment process. PDF, 57 pages.
Checked: Rules can change