India is considering a national-level training and audit framework called the Solar Technician Certification & Skill Audit Program (STCAP-2026), aimed at improving the quality and safety of rooftop solar installations. Officials told SolSetu that the initiative seeks to standardize technician skills as installation complaints rise across multiple states.

Under the new framework, technicians may need to undergo mandatory certification and periodic skill audits to maintain eligibility for rooftop solar installations under government schemes.

Why STCAP-2026 Is Being Evaluated

India’s rapid rooftop solar growth has exposed several gaps in field-level execution. According to DISCOMs and renewable energy departments, the most common issues include:

• Poor crimping and loose DC connections increasing fire risk
• Incorrect tilt angle leading to 15–30% energy loss
• Improper cable routing causing inverter shutdowns
• Waterproofing failures due to poor drilling practices
• Inadequate safety gear usage during installations

Officials believe that “standardized skill training + performance audits” could significantly reduce technical failures and customer complaints.

How the Certification & Skill Audit System May Work

The proposed program may include:

• Tiered certification levels — Level 1 (Basic), Level 2 (Advanced), Level 3 (Expert)
• Mandatory recertification every 2–3 years
• On-site audit scores for real installation quality
• Digital technician ID linked to government portals
• Performance dashboard to track workmanship quality over time
• Penalty flags for repeated unsafe practices

Technicians with high ratings may receive priority for government-linked rooftop projects.

Benefits for Households & Consumers

• Fewer system failures and service calls
• Reduced fire risk due to better electrical safety
• Higher lifetime generation due to proper installation
• Transparent technician performance history before hiring

Benefits for the Solar Industry

• Stronger workforce competency
• Better installation consistency across states
• Lower warranty claims for EPC companies
• Higher consumer trust in rooftop solar

Pilot Rollout Expected in 2026

The program may initially launch in major rooftop-heavy states:

• Maharashtra
• Gujarat
• Rajasthan
• Karnataka
• Delhi NCR

STCAP-2026 is expected to play a key role in India’s goal of scaling rooftop solar to unprecedented levels under national renewable energy targets.

SolSetu will continue monitoring updates as stakeholder consultations begin early next year.