India is preparing to enforce smart inverter compliance for all new rooftop solar installations beginning in 2026, according to industry sources familiar with early draft guidelines. The move aims to improve grid stability, enhance safety, and support higher levels of distributed solar penetration across urban centers.

Smart inverters allow two-way communication with the grid, enabling real-time monitoring, remote diagnostics, and automatic response to voltage fluctuations — features increasingly essential as rooftop solar adoption rises across India.

Why Smart Inverters Are Becoming Mandatory

DISCOMs in high-adoption states have reported growing challenges in voltage management, reverse power flow, and load balancing as residential and commercial solar uptake accelerates.

“Smart inverters provide the grid intelligence we need for the next phase of rooftop growth,” a senior official from a Western India DISCOM told SolSetu.

Key Features Likely to Be Mandated

The new compliance standards may include:

• Remote monitoring capability through mobile apps or portals
• Reactive power support to manage voltage fluctuations
• Anti-islanding protection for safety during outages
• Automatic derating during grid instability
• Ability to integrate with future battery storage systems

These features will be applicable for both single-phase and three-phase rooftop solar systems.

Impact on Installers and Consumers

Installers say the transition to smart inverters may increase upfront system costs by 5–8%, but the improved reliability and performance will benefit consumers in the long term.

Consumers will gain access to real-time production data, energy analytics, and enhanced grid safety features.

Expected Rollout Timeline

The policy is likely to be finalized by mid-2026, with a six-month transition window for installers to comply.

Early adoption may begin in states such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Delhi, and Rajasthan — regions with the highest rooftop solar penetration.

SolSetu will continue monitoring policy updates and publish details once MNRE releases the formal notification.