# DCR vs Non-DCR Solar Panels: Subsidy & Price

> DCR (Domestic Content Requirement) panels use Indian-made cells and are mandatory for PM Surya Ghar subsidy. Here's how they compare with non-DCR panels on price, performance and when each makes sense.

Canonical: https://geniussolarservices.com/learn/dcr-vs-non-dcr-solar-panels

DCR (Domestic Content Requirement) solar modules are made with solar cells manufactured in India; non-DCR modules use imported cells, even if assembled in India. PM Surya Ghar subsidy for homes and housing societies requires DCR modules. DCR modules usually cost more per watt, but for a home the ₹30,000–₹78,000 subsidy more than covers the difference. Businesses that don't receive subsidy often choose non-DCR modules for a lower cost per watt.

- **DCR:** Indian-made cells
- **Needed for:** PM Surya Ghar subsidy
- **Price:** DCR costs more per watt
- **Performance:** Depends on cell tech, not origin


## The one-line difference

**DCR** = the cells inside were made in India. **Non-DCR** = the cells were imported (the module may still be assembled in India).

## When you must use DCR

| Project type | DCR required? |
|---|---|
| Home system with PM Surya Ghar subsidy | Yes |
| Housing society / RWA with subsidy | Yes |
| Home system without subsidy | No |
| Commercial or industrial rooftop | No |

## Price and value

DCR modules carry a price premium per watt because domestic cell capacity is still growing. For a home, the subsidy (₹30,000 per kW for the first 2 kW, ₹18,000 for the third) outweighs the premium many times over, so DCR is the obvious choice. For a factory without subsidy, non-DCR modules usually give a lower cost per kWh.

## Does DCR perform differently?

Performance depends on the **cell technology** (PERC, TOPCon, bifacial), not the country of manufacture. Compare datasheets: efficiency, temperature coefficient, degradation and warranty. See [solar panel types](/learn/solar-panel-types-mono-perc-topcon-bifacial).

## How to verify DCR modules

- The module should be listed by the manufacturer as DCR and on the ALMM list.
- Your invoice and the subsidy documentation will show module serial numbers.
- We share serial numbers and DCR certificates with every subsidised installation.


Updated: 2026-09-29

---

**Genius Solar Services** · G-1, Swarna Palace, Plot No. 1108, Scheme No. 114, Part 1, Vijay Nagar, Near MP Gramin Bank, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452010 · Phone +91 98267 12299, +91 78288 12299, 0731 400 4499 · geniussolarservices@gmail.com · Mon – Sat · 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Source: https://geniussolarservices.com