The Government of India is exploring a national certification program known as the Solar Installer Digital License & Competency Card (SILC-2026), aimed at standardizing rooftop solar workmanship across the country. Officials involved in early discussions told SolSetu that the certification will help ensure safety, quality, and uniform installation standards under national subsidy programs.

The move comes as India witnesses a rapid surge in rooftop solar adoption, especially under government schemes encouraging clean energy transition for residential households.

Why SILC-2026 Is Being Proposed

Recent data indicates that rooftop solar installations face recurring challenges such as:

• Poor-quality wiring and DC-side safety risks
• Incorrect inverter configurations
• Improper mounting structure alignment
• Insufficient earthing and surge protection
• System underperformance due to shading miscalculations

Experts believe that a national-level competency card could significantly enhance solar installation quality.

Key Features Expected in the SILC-2026 Program

According to early draft recommendations, SILC-2026 may include:

• Digital Installer ID linked with Aadhaar-based verification
• Skill-level categorization (Basic, Intermediate, Master Installer)
• Mandatory safety training for DC, AC, and earthing practices
• QR-enabled certification card for on-site verification
• Online training modules for rooftop system design and commissioning
• Performance-based ranking for installers
• Mandatory license renewal every 3 years

Benefits for Consumers & Installers

The digital license system may offer major advantages:

• Higher-quality rooftop solar installations nationwide
• Reduced risk of wiring faults & inverter damage
• Better subsidy claim processing due to verified installers
• Greater trust between customers and EPC companies
• Opportunity for technicians to upskill and earn higher income

Implementation Timeline

The pilot is expected to roll out in 2026 in:

• Maharashtra
• Gujarat
• Tamil Nadu
• Karnataka
• Uttar Pradesh

A nationwide launch is likely once training modules are standardized and skill centers onboard certified trainers.

SolSetu will continue tracking policy developments and industry responses as SILC-2026 moves closer to official review.