The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is preparing to introduce a Solar Installer Rating Index in 2026 to rank rooftop solar installers across India based on performance, installation quality, customer satisfaction, and adherence to safety standards.

The initiative aims to help consumers identify reliable installers and encourage higher service quality in the rapidly growing residential and commercial rooftop solar market.

Why a Rating Index Is Needed

With rooftop solar adoption increasing nationwide, complaints related to poor installation work, safety issues, and lack of timely service have been rising. Many consumers struggle to differentiate between experienced installers and those offering low-cost but substandard solutions.

An MNRE official told SolSetu, “A transparent rating system will reward good installers and discourage shortcuts that compromise safety and performance.”

How the Installer Rating Index May Work

The rating model is expected to evaluate installers based on:

• Installation quality and adherence to standards
• Customer reviews and complaint records
• Technician certification levels
• Use of approved components (ALMM-compliant)
• Time taken for installation and commissioning
• Service responsiveness and after-sales support

Each installer may receive a yearly rating between 1 and 5 stars, to be displayed on state portals and DISCOM platforms.

Industry Response

Major EPC companies have welcomed the proposal, stating that the index will help the market become more transparent and raise installation standards across the country.

However, smaller installers believe MNRE must offer training and support programs to ensure fair competition and compliance readiness.

Rollout Timeline

The first version of the rating index is expected to roll out in mid-2026, with pilot testing planned in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Kerala.

SolSetu will publish updates as soon as the index framework is officially released.