The growing demand for clean energy and the need to mitigate environmental degradation have accelerated the adoption of solar energy systems worldwide. This study investigates the technical, economic, and environmental viability of installing a 71-panel rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system in CP Colony, Morar, Gwalior, India. Detailed load assessments, site surveys, and system sizing were conducted, resulting in a calculated daily load of approximately 267.89 kWh and an annual consumption of 85,996.31 kWh. The PV system design utilized 450 Wp panels with 85% system efficiency, estimating an energy generation of 6.44 lakh INR per year. Economic evaluation indicated a total installation cost of ?17.07 lakh, which, after a 30% government subsidy, resulted in a net cost of ?11.95 lakh, yielding a payback period of under 2 years.
Environmental analysis revealed a considerable reduction in carbon emissions, highlighting the sustainability benefits of the solar installation. Performance variability due to shading, maintenance, and orientation was also examined. Despite some technical and financial challenges, the system proved to be a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for localized energy generation. The study underscores the importance of policy incentives, system optimization, and public awareness to drive wider adoption of rooftop PV systems in urban India
Introduction
1. Background & Significance
With rising energy demand and the need to address climate change, solar energy is gaining momentum. Gwalior, due to its high solar potential and roof space availability, is an ideal location for deploying solar rooftop systems. This study investigates the technical feasibility, economic viability, and environmental benefits of implementing such a system in the city.
2. Objectives
Analyze current energy consumption and infrastructure in Gwalior.
Evaluate rooftop suitability for solar panel installation.
Determine financial aspects including return on investment (ROI).
Assess environmental impact through emissions reduction.
Review relevant policies and engage key stakeholders.
3. Site Survey & System Type
A physical survey of buildings was conducted in April 2025 to measure rooftop space and check for obstructions. Two types of systems were considered:
Off-grid system: Independent from the power grid, ideal for remote areas.
On-grid system: Connected to the power grid, allowing excess power to be sold back (via net metering).
4. Load & Energy Consumption
Detailed load calculation for buildings yielded a total connected load of 15,683W, with annual energy consumption estimated at 85,996.31 kWh.
5. System Design & Estimation
a) System Sizing
Required system energy: 267,894 Wh/day
One 450W panel (actual 344.25W usable) generates approx. 3786.75 Wh/day
71 solar panels needed to meet daily demand
b) Cost Estimation
Total Cost: ?17,07,000
Subsidy (30%): ?5,12,100
Net Cost: ?11,94,900
c) Savings & Payback
Annual electricity cost savings: ?6,44,973
Payback period: ~1.85 years (under 2 years)
6. Energy Generation & System Performance
Combined daily generation: ~267.90 kWh
Solar panels effectively utilized local solar radiation
Resulted in significant energy cost savings and increased self-sufficiency
7. Environmental Impact
Marked reduction in CO? emissions
Contributes to better air quality and climate change mitigation
8. Challenges & Recommendations
Benefits:
Lower electricity bills
Positive environmental impact
Short payback period
Challenges:
High initial investment
Maintenance needs
Variability due to shading or poor orientation
Recommendations:
Raise public awareness of solar benefits
Offer more financial incentives and tax breaks
Simplify permitting and grid connection processes
Encourage net metering policies
Promote R&D for better efficiency and lower costs
Conclusion
The performance evaluation of the 16 solar plate solar roof plants in CP Colony, Morar, Gwalior, demonstrated their significant energy generation capacity, efficient solar resource utilization, and positive economic and environmental impact. While challenges exist, the benefits and lessons learned from this study provide valuable insights for policymakers, residents, and businesses interested in implementing solar rooftop PV systems. Continued efforts to overcome challenges and optimize system performance will contribute to the widespread adoption of solar energy and the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future in CP Colony, Morar, Gwalior, and beyond. some hypothetical numeric data examples that could be included in the results section of your thesis on the energy, economic, and environmental performance of a solar rooftop photovoltaic system in CP Colony, Morar, Gwalior.
References
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