Our Contacts

47, Jayalakshmi Nagar, Moulivkakam, Chennai 600116

ram@solstrom.in

sales@solstrom.in

+91 9952054308

+91 8939978450

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Solar Panel Maintenance Checklist

If you have solar panels installed in your home, these are probably the questions you will want answers for!

How do I know if my solar panels need maintenance?

The best way to identify solar panel maintenance issues is to check if the system is generating the optimum energy. Compare your recent electricity bills with those from the previous few months or years to obtain it. Output data is also shown in the monitoring application.

It is a warning sign that your solar panels require maintenance if you find signicant deviations from the normal or discrepancies in their performance.

You’ll have to do a few basic tasks to maintain your solar panels in good condition, but most of the time, keeping your solar panels is simple and few things you can perform on your own.

Let’s look into some of the important Solar Panel Maintenance checklist

You should always have a maintenance checklist for your solar panels on standby so that you can do timely inspections and identify any defects. Your checklist should include the following:

Visual inspection:

solar panel maintenance and repair
  • Debris removal from surface of the panels (such as leaves and nesting material).
  • Remove any dust or dirt that has accumulated around the inverter.
  • A build-up of dirt in the inverter’s heat sink acts as an insulator, reducing the inverter’s performance and lifespan.
  • Whether any of your panels have faded in colour, cracked, or become cloudy, you should contact your provider to see if they need to be replaced.
  • Frequency of inspections recommended once in every 6-12 months.

Electrical inspection:

This can be done by a solar maintenance professional to ensure that:

  • The earthing point and earth cable are connected and free of corrosion.
  • Rooftop isolators are not damaged by heat and the inverter is functioning normally.

Remove potential dangers: PV panels are vulnerable to shading; any overhanging tree branches must be removed to prevent any hazards to the panels. If you notice any trees growing too large since the system was built, cut them down.

Clean your solar panels: Sloping roof installations are generally washed by natural rainfall, although those on flat roofs or in places with drastic pollution or debris need be cleaned at least once in every twelve months; however, this depends:

  • pitch of panels.
  • proximity to dust sources.
  • frequency of rain events.

Track the Performance of Your panels:

Compare performance data with the preceding week, month, and/or the same period last year in order to assess performance. It is recommended to check the performance of your solar panel once in every six months in order to identify issues earlier and fix problems, if required.

Maintaining a logbook:

If you want to keep your solar system in a good condition, it’s always necessary to keep a track of any maintenance work done. This can also include inspecting and cleaning parts, or replacing them if necessary.

You can extend the life and increase the performance of your solar panels by following this simple checklist. Simple upkeep protects your solar investment.

Get your panels serviced – We highly recommend that you do this at least once every year. Solar panels must be maintained in order to last as long and generate energy at a high rate of efficiency.

Call us Tel: 9952054308

chat with us:

Email us: ram@solstrom.in

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How To Reduce EB Bill In Chennai?

Electric Bills Are Expensive

In general, electric bills are determined by two factors: how much energy is consumed and the utility’s rate.

Power consumption is inversely proportional to your bill, so it makes sense that the more power you consume, the more you pay. However, the effect might be more significant than you think.

The installation of a solar panel in Chennai allows individuals to generate their own electricity. They can drastically reduce their expenses by avoiding high electricity usage rates, if not completely eliminating them.

How To Reduce EB Bill In Chennai?

Solar Panel in Chennai are transforming the skyline, and the trend of installing solar panels is growing fast in recent days. Did you ever think of installing a solar panel system? Many consumers are hesitant to do due to its high upfront cost.  However, the amount you save through solar panels will quickly cover the amount you spent.

It is well known that solar power reduces carbon emissions and provides green and clean renewable energy. Many people don’t realize that solar energy produced on our rooftops is cheaper and less expensive than our current electricity bill.

Simple Way to Cut Your Electricity Bill

Looking for ways to reduce your electricity costs?

Install solar panel: There’s really nothing best for the environment and your money than running on solar electricity. That’s the solution to go when you want to save over 90% on your electric bills.

Use LED lighting to minimize electricity: LED light bulbs are getting more budget-friendly, which is great news for your budget. You may also switch your light fittings to compact fluorescent lights, which consume less energy and help reduce the amount on your power bills.

Lower your heat and cooling consumption: Did you ever think that air conditioners and water heaters contribute to 50% of your power bill? A simple air conditioning tune-up ensures that all components of the A/C unit are functioning properly and that the unit will last you the entire summer.

Clean-up electrical appliances: Dust and other particles may affect the performance of your electrical appliances. The regular maintenance of your appliances ensures their smooth operation.

Don’t forget to switch off the appliance: Electronic devices should always be turned off when they aren’t in use, which is one of the simplest ways to conserve electricity.

Make use of energy-saving appliances: Choose appliances that consume less energy as well as invest in cutting-edge, energy-efficient technology gadgets which help lower rising electricity bills.

How Does a Solar Panel Reduce Electric Bills?

Solar Panel saves household’s money on their electricity bills while also insulating them from rising electricity bills.

Solar Panel

To make installation of solar panel in Chennai, visit SOLSTROM – Best Solar Company in Chennai. https://solstrom.in/ and connect to one of our Solar Energy Experts!

Solar panels have grown rapidly in Chennai in recent years due to the multiple features they provide. By generating your own energy, you can greatly reduce your electricity bills.

Here are a few reasons why you should use solar panels

Solar panels lower the cost of your utility bill: Photovoltaic systems produce power directly from the sun, and as energy generated by the sun is free & renewable, you do not have to pay to use the electricity generated.

It signifies you’ll spend lesser and conserve more money on your energy bills. Your power problems may also be simply resolved with the best solar panel.

Solar panels are an excellent source of renewable energy: The PV panels will produce electricity straight from the Sunlight, making it a renewable source of energy, and everyone may utilize the free energy generated by the sun without worrying about power outages. Therefore, we may receive free clean energy which doesn’t produce carbon gases.

Solar panel provide a strong return on investment: Installing solar panels is a smart investment choice for individuals since they will get their money back in a specific time frame.

The installation cost of PV panels is significant, yet you will end up saving a lot of money on your electricity bills. As a result, you’ll get a return on the upfront investment made when installing the solar panels.

Thinking about switching into solar and don’t know where to find the best solution for solar panel in Chennai?

SOLSTROM, the leading solar energy company, offers solar panel in Chennai to help you solve your energy concerns.

The goal of our company is to fulfil all your solar energy needs in a reliable, safe, efficient, and easy way. The company also provides engineering, construction, and operation of solar power plants.

What is the cost of installing solar panel in Chennai?

A solar panel’s price can vary according to its technology, type, and size. The average cost of a 1KWp plant is about Rs 60,000.

Installing a 1KWp plant will generate about 4-5 units of electricity per day. Based on their energy consumption, households can determine the size of the plant they need to meet their energy needs.

The following table summarizes the solar panel size and the energy generates:

SOLAR SYSTEM SIZEMONTHLY GENERATION
1 kW150 units
2 kW300 units
3 kW450 units
5 kW600 units

Cost For Solar on Grid System 

SOLAR SYSTEM SIZE (KW)COST (RS / KW)
1 kW – 10 kWRs. 60,000 /-
10 kW – 100 kWRs. 55,000 /-

In order to calculate how many solar panels, you need for your home, two things must be known.

 The average monthly energy consumption of your home.

 The average monthly solar power generation at your place.

Take a look at your recent electric bill to find out how much electricity your house used on average per month during the last twelve months. Divide your house’s previous 12-month power consumption figures by 12 to calculate your average monthly electricity usage.

Why Solstrom for Installing Solar Panel in Chennai?

SOLSTROM helps you through the entire process of installing solar panel in Chennai, that meet all your needs and requirements to minimize the electricity expense entirely by following the standard procedure for solar power plant installation. By generating your own energy, you can greatly reduce your electricity bills.

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How To pay TNEB Payment Online in Chennai

Modern technology plays a major role in almost every aspect of our lives. Everything from fans to lights to air conditioning to laptops requires an electrical source.

The importance of having power at home and at work cannot be overstated. Paying electricity bills on time is crucial for preventing power cuts and late fees. Today, customers can pay their power bills from anywhere in the world at their convenience.

Overview of TNEB

The Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) was established under Section 54 of the Electricity Supply 1948 Act on July 1, 1957. It is an integrated utility that produces, transmits, and distributes electricity.

The Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation Ltd (TANGEDCO), one of TNEB’s subsidiaries, generates 18,732.78 MW of electricity for distribution throughout the state. There are about 307.54 million people who are served by the government in the state.

The power bill you are obliged to pay is generated by TNEB. With the evolution of technology, it is now possible to pay your TNEB Payment online, making the process quick and easy.

How To Pay TNEB Payment Online

You can pay your energy bill via the TNEB website in Chennai, which is one of the most convenient ways to do so. Various payment methods are accepted on the site, including credit cards, debit cards, and internet banking.

You can pay your electricity bill in Chennai using UPI, which is one of the most popular and convenient method. If you prefer, you can pay your electricity bill in cash, by check, or by DD at the TNEB office.

Can solar power be used in place of electricity?

Aside from electricity, you can use solar energy to power your home by installing solar panel in Chennai, which will reduce the electricity bills. A solar power system for your home is both low maintenance and a great investment.

Solar energy is a safe and clean way for homes, businesses, and individuals to contribute to a better environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Would you like to have a Solar Panel installed on your home or business? With SOLSTROM, a pioneer in Chennai for the solar business that offers cutting-edge solar power plant solutions, hence switching to solar energy is a smart way to battle climate change and reduce your household’s carbon footprint.

How to Pay TNEB Payment Online through TNEB Website in Chennai TNEB Payment Online methods are as ollows:

Solstrom
How To pay TNEB Payment Online in Chennai 1
  • Go to TANGEDCO’s official website: https://www.tangedco.gov.in/. If you are a first-time user, register your account by “New User – Register Here”
  • Under “Billing Services” on the homepage, choose “Online Bill Payment”, you’ll be redirected to a new page.
  • Type your User Id and password in the boxes provided, click “Login ” to access the portal.
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How To pay TNEB Payment Online in Chennai 2
  • In “Bill details,” you can see the Consumer Name, Number, Address, Bill Amount, and Due Date.
  • By clicking “Pay Bill,” you can view payment options and make a payment.” On the Payment Options page, you’ll find many payments gateway options, including:
  • Any Credit or Debit card.

All Net Banking.

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How To pay TNEB Payment Online in Chennai 3

Once you select a payment gateway, it will redirect you to a page with terms and conditions. To approve the payment, click the box and select “Confirm Pay.”.

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How To pay TNEB Payment Online in Chennai 4

After making a payment, you will receive a confirmation SMS on the registered mobile number and an email you provided.

How to find the region code for TNEB Payment Online?

Region codeName of the regionDistrict or zone
1Chennai northManali, Tondiarpet, Roya Puram, Madhavaram, TVK Nagar, Thiruvottiyur, Teynampet, Ambattur Zones and part of Tiruvallur District
2VillupuramKallakurichi, Tiruvannamalai, Cuddalore, Villupuram
3CoimbatoreTirupur, Coimbatore, Nilgiris
4Erode Namakkal, Salem, Erode.
5MaduraiRamanathapuram, Madurai, Dindigul, Theni, Sivagangai
6TrichyNagapattinam, Ariyalur, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Karur, Mayiladuthurai, Perambalur, Thiruvarur, Trichy
7TirunelveliKanyakumari, Tuticorin, Virudhunagar, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi
8Vellore Ranipet, Tirupathur, Dharmapuri, Vellore, Krishnagiri
9Chennai southAmbattur, Kodambakkam, Adyar, Anna Nagar, Perungudi, Alandur, Valasaravakkam, Sholinganallur Zones, Chengalpattu District, Part of Tiruvallur and Kanchipuram District

Additional features of the TNEB Payment Online

The following is a list of the various choices that consumers can access on TNEB’s website:

Quick Pay, Bill Details, E- receipt, Account Summary, add or delete a number, and customer support services etc.

Quick Pay

  • Verify your region code, enter your consumer number, and then click “Submit.”

You will be taken to your bank’s page for transactions once you have verified the bill amount and click PAY after choosing your method of payment.

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How To pay TNEB Payment Online in Chennai 5

Account Summary On the account summary page, you can view the Service details, disconnection and reconnection information, as well as monthly electricity consumption units, charges, and the bill details.

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How To pay TNEB Payment Online in Chennai 6
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How To pay TNEB Payment Online in Chennai 7

How to Pay TNEB payment through TANGEDCO App

TANGEDCO’s mobile app can also be downloaded from the Apple Store or Play Store for payment of your electric bills. Here is how to use the TANGEDCO mobile app to pay TNEB payment:

Solstrom
  • Download the TANGEDCO app to your phone.
  • Upon opening the app, allow access to make and manage calls, photos, media, and files.
  • To log in, you will be prompted for your username and password.
  • A four-digit PIN will be required, enter your PIN and confirm it.
  • Enter the amount shown on your Electricity bill in the “Quick Pay” field.
  • Select the payment method at the payment gateway section and complete the transaction.

How to Check the Bill Status of Your TNEB Payment Online

  • Click the link at https://www.tangedco.gov.in/index.html.
  • To view the status of your bill, select Bill Status.
  • From the list provided, select the appropriate region.
  • Enter your service number first, followed by your cell phone number.
  • Click “Proceed” after entering the captcha that is displayed in the box.

Why businesses are installing solar panels

A reliable form of energy, solar power can supply adequate electricity for your household or business and reduce electricity bills.

If you are interested in installing a solar roof on your home or business, please visit https://solstrom.in/ to find out more about our solar panels in Chennai or to get in touch with a Solar Energy Professional!

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Battery Maintenance Checklist

One of the most effective ways to extend the life of your solar batteries and reduce the lifetime cost of your off-grid solar electricity system is to maintain them properly. Maintenance of batteries focuses on proper charging, electrolyte condition, battery terminals, and safety.

When you take good care of your batteries, they will last longer and perform better. Battery life relies on parameters like storage temperature and depth of discharge (DOD).

Here’s a checklist for optimal battery performance and maintenance-free batteries:

Things to Know Before Starting:

Before you start maintenance, make sure all the safety equipment is ready to go. The following is a list of typical maintenance tools you will require.

  • Hydrometer;
  • Glass bulb type thermometer;
  • Distilled water;
  • Handheld voltmeter or multi meter;
  • Anti-oxidant coating;
  • Hand gloves and protective eyewear;
  • Baking soda – for cleaning of batteries.

Prevent unauthorised access:

Batteries should be placed per manufacturer instructions. The battery bank must be safeguarded by a proper enclosure that is only accessible to authorized personnel. Proper safety signs should caution people about the risks.

Check the battery:

A comprehensive and detailed visual inspection of the battery is needed as part of routine maintenance. This inspection should also include:

  • cleanliness of batteries;
  • level of electrolyte;
  • condition of battery terminals;
  • signs of any electrolyte in the safety trays on the floor, indicating a battery leak or overfilling;
  • condition of battery containers; and
  • battery voltage level.

Charging your batteries

To maximise the life of a battery bank, it is best to ensure that it is regularly receiving a full charge. Some solar lead acid batteries can go down to a maximum depth of discharge of 70- 80% while, for some deep cycle lead acid batteries, the recommended maximum depth of discharge is 50%.

  • For flooded batteries, the battery bank also requires an equalisation charge to ensure that all individual cells in the bank are at a similar charge. This is achieved by charging the battery until bubbling or gassing occurs.
  • The period between equalisation charges is dependent upon manufacturer and typically vary from 7–28 days but some batteries can be as high as 90 days. Please check with your system supplier.

How To Check the Fluid Level

The only type of battery that requires this procedure is a flooded lead acid battery (FLA). Open the top of your battery and look inside. To ensure that no metallic lead surfaces are visible, the cells should be filled with distilled water.

Most batteries contain a “fill line” that indicates the proper electrolyte level. The maximum liquid level is about 1/2 inch below the cap. Do not overfill your batteries, since this could cause them to spill!

How To Check the Charge Level           

  • Determine the state of charge or depth of discharge (DOD) by checking the specific gravity and voltage of the battery.
  • The specific gravity table below will help you determine the state of charge of your battery.
  • If your batteries are 6V instead of 12V then simply divide the voltages by two. Similarly, double the voltage values for a 24V system.
  • If you do not properly monitor these two factors, your battery will undergo significant sulfation.

Battery Tests:

After you finish visually inspecting your batteries, there are two important tests you should do as part of regular maintenance: 

  • Open Circuit Voltage Testing and
  • Specific Gravity Testing.

Performing these tests monthly will give you with key information regarding the condition, lifespan, and charging level of the batteries. Additionally, they will assist you in identifying issues like overcharging, undercharging, and overwatering. Identifying these issues early is crucial for maintaining the condition of the battery.

Cleaning Batteries:

  • Cleaning the battery terminals on a regular basis requires a mixture of baking soda and distilled water applied with a battery terminal cleaner brush.
  • Then, rinse the terminals with water, ensuring that all connections are secure, and apply a commercial sealant or high temperature grease to the metallic components.
  • Clean up the space around the batteries; it should be dry and well-organized.
  • Call us Tel: 9952054308
  • chat with us:

Email us: ram@solstrom.in

GST Rates & HSN Codes for Solar Rooftop Products

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GST Rates and HSN Codes for Solar Rooftop Products in India

HSN (Harmonized System Nomenclature) Number and SAC (Services Accounting Code) Number got its place as a new column in invoices for Solar Equipment after the implementation of the GST. Yes, it is mandatory to give a column in invoices for HSN/ SAC. Confused? Here’s an attempt to make it simpler for you.

Solar energy has been emerging as a progressive and effective power generation alternative for residential, commercial, industrial use. Government policies have so far have remained favorable, and this had an advantage for the solar industry to have a 3-fold increment on Year-on-Year basis. The GST rate for the material used for equipment stood at 5% and it was making a smooth progress. Customers were understanding the need and have been inclined to buy such solar solutions that help them reduce their dependence on grid power.

But now as per government’s new norms, from October 01, the GST rate will be 12%, due to which the price of solar power equipment will increase by 7% – 10 %.

What has HSN and SAC got to do with the GST?

We all know that GST is Goods and Service Tax. Which means the tax on Goods or Services or Both. HSN number is used to classify the Goods that come under GST into “22 sections and 99 chapters”. SAC codes are similar to HSN codes and have been used since before implementation of GST.

Why HSN and SAC?
GST is followed in around 160 countries out of 196. Globally, most of them follow similar HSN/ SAC codes with a very slight difference between one another. This helps in attracting foreign trade as (import or export) by easing the taxations.

How is HSN code classified?

It has 21 sections with 99 chapters, 1,244 headings and 5,224 subheadings. They are arranged based on the product degree of manufacture or in terms of its technological complexity. The natural products that include plants and animals come under the initial sections. While the man-made or technologically advanced products that include machinery come later.

The HS comprises approximately 5,300 article/product descriptions that appear as headings and subheadings, arranged in 99 chapters, grouped in 21 sections. The six digits can be broken down into three parts. The first two digits represent the chapter the goods are classified in, e.g. 09 = Coffee, Tea, MatÃĐ and Spices. The next two digits identify groupings within that chapter, e.g. 09.02 = Tea, whether or not flavoured. The final two digits are even more specific, e.g. 09.02.10 Green tea (not fermented). All countries classify products in the same way, upto 6 digits filtering (a few exceptions exist where some countries apply old versions of the HS).

Every section is a collection of various chapters. The sections represent broader classification of goods and chapters represent a smaller section that filters down to particular product section.

In order to identify the goods better, India and some of the countries use this 8 digit code for a more specific classification. Some of the HSN codes use dashes in the beginning of description which denotes an article that belongs to a group covered under a heading. A double dash indicates that the article is sub-classification of the preceding article that has a single dash. And triple dash indicates that the article is a sub classification of the preceding article that has a double dash or triple dash.

SAC code in GST

SAC and HSN are the similar codes under GST. In case of services, for each type of service provided is given a unified code for recognition, measurement and taxation. These are known as SAC codes. In the current service tax regime, SAC codes are already defined for each type of service.

  • The small dealers under composition scheme will not require to mention SAC codes in their invoices. The codes will be mentioned in invoice and in the GST tax return details which will be uploaded on the GST portal.
  • The small business under composition scheme will not be required to mention SAC codes in their invoice.

Services will continue to be classified under Services Accounting Code (SAC) which is issued by the government for service tax. This is expected to remain in GST regime.

How it affects Solar Industry?

Though our Honourable Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi has announced in his speech that all Renewable energy equipments will be taxed 5% GST, traders are confused as there have been no written statements or Orders passed yet which has stalled the market since a week.

As per our understanding, HSN Numbers and GST % are as follows:

This May we had published a preliminary guide on expected GST rates for the rooftop solar industry. Now that the dust has settled, the final rates are clear. Below information serves as a ready reference for the GST rates 

applicable along with relevant HSN codes for the solar industry in India:

Item HSN/SAC Code GST Rate Applicable
Battery 8507 28%
Solar Module 8541 5%
Charge Controller 8504 28%
LED Lights 9405 12%
Solar Lantern with Modules 85 (4/6 digit code awaited) 12%
Solar Power Generating Systems 85 (4/6 digit code awaited) 12%
Solar Inverter 8504 12%
Data Loggers 8517 18%
GI Mounting Structure 7308 18%
Al Mounting Structure 7610 18%
Cables 8544 18%
Solar Water Heater & System 8419 12%
Erection, Installation & Comissioning Services 9954 18%

*The GST rate applicable on solar inverters is still under debate with some vendors invoicing at 5% GST and others at 28%.

In addition to this, the rates applicable on the various components required in the assembly of solar panels are below:

Item HSN Code GST Rate Applicable
Tempered Glass 7007 28%
EVA Backsheets 3921 18%
Aluminium Frame 7604 18%
Junction Box 8536 28%
Solar Cells 8541 12%
Solar PV Ribbon 7409 18%

“ There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning failure ”

- Tina Retina

Top 10 Solar Panel Manufacturers in India

we have listed the top 10 solar manufacturers in India and we are distributors of all the major manufacturers in Chennai, Tamil Nadu

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What is solar energy? Understanding the depth and breadth of Solar Energy

Solar is the cheapest form of electricity and India’s is blessed abundant with it. If your thinking about learning solar, this the blog for you to read.

High Rise Elevated Solar Structure for Solar Power Plants

Elevated solar module structure is the norm in most of residential Solar installations across Tamil Nadu and India. Learn more about it from this blog.

People & Protocols Keep Our Global Safety Standards High

Why should you install solar for commercial buildings?

Electricity bills are high for commercial buildings and they are best suitable for solar power. Solstrom solar experts blog about solar for commercial buildings.

Tamil Nadu Solar Subsidy!

Solar subsidy is major reason for the early adoption of solar power by residential, commercial and Industrial consumers. Now 40% subsidy is available only for residential customers.