The answer is yes—but with careful planning. Let’s dive into the details.

Power Consumption of a 1.5-Ton AC

A 1.5-ton inverter AC typically consumes between 1.2 to 1.5 kW per hour depending on its energy efficiency rating, room insulation, and external temperature. Here’s what daily usage might look like:

• Daily usage: 6–8 hours
• Units consumed/day: ~8–10 kWh (units)
• Monthly consumption: 240–300 units

Solar System Sizing

To offset this energy demand with solar, you need a system that generates at least 8–10 units per day. In Indian conditions (4–5 sun hours/day), a 1 kW solar system produces ~4 units/day. Therefore:

To generate 10 units/day, you need at least a 2.5–3 kW solar system.

Quick calculation:

• 3 kW system × 4 units/day/kW = 12 units/day

This not only covers your AC but can also handle basic lighting, fans, and other small appliances during the day.

Rooftop area required: ~200–250 sq. ft. of shadow-free roof space

Battery vs. Grid-Tied Usage

Without Battery (Grid-Tied)

• Most efficient and affordable option
• Run the AC during the day using solar power
• Use net metering to export excess power to the grid
• Import power at night when needed
• Ideal for most homes

With Battery (Off-Grid or Hybrid)

• Needed if you want 100% solar independence
• Battery stores solar energy for night-time AC use
• Adds ₹60,000–₹1 lakh to the system cost
• Maintenance and battery lifespan must be considered

Conclusion: If your AC runs mostly during the day, a grid-tied or hybrid system without large batteries is the most cost-effective.

Real-World Scenario & Cost

Let’s say you install a 3 kW rooftop solar system:

• Cost: ₹1.5–2.2 lakh (after subsidy)
• Generation: ~12 units/day
• Covers: AC + lights, fans, TV, fridge (during the day)
• Monthly savings: ₹2,000–₹3,000
• ROI: 3 to 5 years
• Lifespan: 25 years

With subsidies under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, you can get up to ₹78,000 off your solar installation. States like Haryana also offer additional subsidies to eligible families.

Tips for Better Efficiency

• Use an Inverter AC: Consumes 30–50% less electricity
• Run During the Day: Allows direct solar usage
• Maintain Your Solar Panels: Clean regularly for peak performance
• Insulate Your Room: Keeps cool air in and reduces load

Conclusion

Yes, you can run a 1.5-ton AC on solar power. A properly sized system—around 3 kW—can handle your cooling needs and reduce your grid dependence significantly. With falling solar prices, rising electricity costs, and government support, this is the perfect time to invest in rooftop solar.

At Surya Urza Enterprises, we help you design the ideal solar setup tailored to your needs. From consultation to installation, our team is committed to powering your tomorrow—efficiently and sustainably.

Ready to go solar? Contact us today!