India is preparing to roll out a nationwide digital Solar Installation Tracking System (SITS) in 2026 to monitor rooftop and ground-mounted solar projects in real time. The platform, currently under pilot testing in three states, aims to improve data accuracy for installations, reduce subsidy fraud, and accelerate project approvals.

Why India Needs a Central Solar Tracking System

Currently, solar installation records are scattered across multiple state portals, DISCOM databases, EPC documentation, and subsidy reports. This has often resulted in data duplication, delayed approvals, and inaccurate national statistics for rooftop solar growth.

An MNRE technical advisor told SolSetu: “With solar capacity adding rapidly across the country, a central digital platform is necessary to verify installations, track progress, and eliminate discrepancies in reporting.”

Key Features of the Proposed SITS Platform

According to early documentation and pilot feedback, the system may include:

• Real-time installation updates with geotagged images
• Automated installer verification and digital onboarding
• Integration with subsidy portals for faster approvals
• Centralized records for DISCOMs, EPC contractors, and consumers
• Monthly performance reporting for each solar system

Officials say the platform could help consumers receive subsidy payments faster and reduce errors caused by manual documentation.

Pilot Tests Show Encouraging Results

The tracking system is being tested in Gujarat, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh. Preliminary results indicate a 24% reduction in document mismatch cases and faster approval cycles for rooftop installations.

One DISCOM official involved in the pilot noted that digital verification has reduced site-visit requirements for smaller systems.

Expected Impact on the Solar Industry

Industry experts believe SITS will improve forecasting accuracy, reduce subsidy misuse, and support long-term renewable energy planning. It may also unlock better financing options as lenders gain access to verified performance data for small-scale solar systems.

Rollout Timeline

MNRE is expected to finalize the platform architecture by February 2026, followed by phased national deployment by late 2026.

SolSetu will continue monitoring progress and share official updates once MNRE releases the final implementation roadmap.