India is considering the introduction of a National Solar Safety Compliance Code aimed at standardizing rooftop installation practices and reducing fire-related incidents reported across several states. The new framework is expected to become part of MNRE’s 2026 policy roadmap for decentralized solar systems.

Concerns Over Solar Safety Rising Nationwide

With rooftop solar installations expanding rapidly, safety-related incidents—particularly wiring faults, inverter overheating, and substandard component usage—have been increasingly highlighted by DISCOMs and state nodal agencies.

Industry experts say the lack of uniform installation standards has led to uneven quality across the country. A senior official from a southern DISCOM told SolSetu, “Most safety issues are linked to inconsistent wiring practices and installers not following any national code.”

Highlights of the Proposed Safety Compliance Code

The draft policy, currently under internal review, may introduce a set of compulsory practices for solar installers, including:

• Mandatory use of DC isolators and surge protection devices
• Certified solar cables and connectors for all rooftop systems
• Compulsory thermal inspection during net-metering approval
• Installer certification through authorized training partners
• Five-year safety audit cycle for large residential systems

According to preliminary reports, installers may also be required to upload geo-tagged installation photos as part of compliance records.

Impact on the Rooftop Solar Market

EPC companies expect the policy to improve consumer trust and reduce post-installation service calls. While compliance may slightly increase installation costs, analysts believe long-term benefits—lower fire risk and improved system reliability—will outweigh the short-term adjustments.

Solar training institutes are also anticipating increased demand as installers may need certification to meet future compliance requirements.

Implementation Timeline

MNRE is likely to release the first public draft in mid-2026, followed by consultation rounds with EPC companies, DISCOMs, and safety experts.

Once implemented, the National Solar Safety Code would become the first standardized safety rulebook for the rooftop solar industry in India.

SolSetu will continue tracking this development and publish updates as more information becomes available.