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How Much Power Does a 3kW Solar Plant Generate Per Month and Year in India?
3kW solar plant generation in India is one of the most preferred system sizes for Indian homes, especially for 2–3 BHK households. In 2025, with improved panel efficiency and strong government incentives under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, homeowners are increasingly choosing 3kW systems to reduce electricity bills and achieve long-term savings.
On average, a 3kW solar plant generates 350–450 units (kWh) per month and around 4,200–5,400 units annually across India. This output can offset 80–100% of a typical household’s electricity consumption, leading to monthly savings of ₹2,100–₹3,600 at ₹6–₹8 per unit.
This guide explains how much power a 3kW solar plant actually generates, what affects its performance, real-world examples, and how you can maximize output.
1. How Much Power Does a 3kW Solar Plant Generate?
3kW solar plant generation in India:
- Monthly: 350–450 units.
- Yearly: 4,200–5,400 units.
This varies depending on sunlight (PSH), location, panel efficiency, shading, and maintenance.
Ideal Locations & Expected Output
The total output depends on several major factors:
a) Peak Sun Hours (PSH)
India receives 4 to 5.5 sun hours daily.
- Rajasthan: 5.2 PSH
- Maharashtra: 4.8 PSH
- Kerala: 3.8 PSH
Higher PSH = more electricity generated.
b) Panel Efficiency
Modern monocrystalline or TOPCon panels offer 18–22% efficiency, increasing total output by 10–15%.
c) System Derating
Overall system efficiency reduces due to inverter losses, wiring, dust, and temperature.
Typical derating: 80–90% efficiency.
d) Roof Direction & Angle
Best direction: South-facing
Best tilt: 10–15°
Proper alignment can boost performance by 10–12%.
e) Seasonal Variations
- Summer: Highest output (130–150 units/month)
- Monsoon: Lowest output (80–110 units/month)
- Winter: Medium output (100–130 units/month)
3. Monthly & Yearly Breakdown of a 3kW Solar Plant
Calculation Formula:
Annual kWh = Capacity (kW) × PSH × 365 × System Efficiency
Example:
3 × 4.5 × 365 × 0.85 = 4,188 units/year
Month-wise Output Table
4. Real-World Examples from Indian Cities
Nagpur
A 3kW plant generates 4,350 units/year, saving ₹26,000 annually.
Delhi NCR
Homeowners report 400+ monthly units, covering AC, refrigerator, and lighting loads.
Gujarat Industrial Sites
3kW systems generate 450+ units/month, achieving near-zero electricity bills through net metering.
After Subsidy Cost
With ₹78,000 central subsidy, a 3kW on-grid plant costs:
₹1.7–2.0 lakh (net cost)
With a 4–5 year payback period, this is one of India’s best financial returns.
5. Why Install a 3kW Solar Plant Now?
- Eligible for central subsidy under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
- Saves ₹24,000–₹40,000 per year.
- Recovers cost in 4–5 years.
- 25-year panel life ensures long-term benefits.
- Ideal for 2–3 BHK homes