DCR and non-DCR solar panels
DCR panels are made with Indian-made cells, and only they qualify for the PM Surya Ghar subsidy. They cost more per watt than non-DCR panels, which is why a quote that looks cheaper can end up costing you the subsidy.
Updated 27 September 2026
What DCR means
DCR stands for Domestic Content Requirement. A DCR panel uses solar cells made in India. A non-DCR panel may well be assembled in India, but its cells are imported. Only the cells differ, so DCR tells you nothing about the panel’s technology: there are DCR and non-DCR versions of TOPCon, mono PERC and bifacial panels.
Why it matters for the subsidy
The PM Surya Ghar subsidy pays only for home systems built with DCR panels of a model on the government’s ALMM list. The inspector checks the panel model. A non-DCR panel does not qualify, however good it is.
The subsidy is ₹30,000 per kW for the first 2 kW and ₹18,000 for the third, capped at ₹78,000. It is paid into the applicant’s own bank account after the DISCOM inspection.
What the price gap looks like
Adani Solar publishes both prices for its Shine TOPCon range, which makes it a clean example.
| Panel | Price per watt |
|---|---|
| DCR | ₹23.25 to ₹24.76 |
| Non-DCR | ₹13.70 to ₹14.20 |
On those figures, DCR panels for a 3 kW system cost roughly ₹27,000 to ₹33,000 more than non-DCR ones, for the panels alone. The subsidy on the same 3 kW system is ₹78,000. So for a home that qualifies, paying the DCR premium comes out well ahead.
When non-DCR makes sense
If a system is not claiming the subsidy, the extra cost of DCR buys nothing. That covers businesses, which are outside the home subsidy, and off-grid systems, which do not qualify. For those, non-DCR panels are the cheaper way to the same generation.
How to check what you are being sold
- Ask for the DCR certificate for the exact panel model on your quote.
- Check the model is on the ALMM list, which the subsidy also requires.
- Compare quotes like for like. A cheaper quote on non-DCR panels is not cheaper if it loses the subsidy.
UTL makes DCR TOPCon panels, including at 580 W and 625 W, as well as non-DCR models such as the 630 Wp G12R. Work out your system size and subsidy in the solar calculator, and see which panel technology is best now for the rest of the choice.
Sources
- Adani Solar prices: TOPCon Shine series, on Adani Solar’s own site, checked 27 September 2026
- Subsidy amounts: our PM Surya Ghar guide
Questions we are asked
What does DCR mean on a solar panel?
Domestic Content Requirement. A DCR panel is built with solar cells made in India. A non-DCR panel may be assembled in India but uses imported cells.
Do I need DCR panels for the PM Surya Ghar subsidy?
Yes. A subsidised home system needs DCR panels of a model on the government's ALMM list. Non-DCR panels do not qualify, however good they are.
How much more do DCR panels cost?
On Adani Solar's published prices for its Shine TOPCon range, DCR modules are listed at about ₹23 to ₹25 per watt and non-DCR at about ₹14, before GST. Prices move, so compare current quotes.