The Government of India is evaluating a first-of-its-kind benchmarking framework called the Solar Feeder Health Scoring System (SFHSS-2026), which will rate all distribution feeders across states based on their ability to handle rooftop solar capacity. Officials told SolSetu this effort is intended to help identify solar-ready neighborhoods and predict areas where grid upgrades are required.

As rooftop installations grow rapidly, several areas experience voltage fluctuations, inverter shutdowns, and reverse-power flow issues. SFHSS-2026 aims to establish a clear, public scoring system to guide both consumers and installers.

Why SFHSS-2026 Is Being Considered

DISCOMs across multiple states have reported the following challenges:

• Feeders overloaded during peak solar generation hours
• Voltage levels dropping below inverter operating limits
• High reverse-power flow stressing transformers
• Poor quality of grid supply affecting solar output
• Local line upgrades not planned proactively

The scoring system will help pinpoint weak feeders and prioritize engineering upgrades.

How the Feeder Health Scoring System May Work

According to early consultations, SFHSS-2026 may include:

• Voltage stability score (V-index during peak hours)
• Reverse power flow score (RPF-risk index)
• Transformer load rating (capacity vs demand)
• Solar hosting capacity score (real-time availability)
• Outage & reliability score (SAIDI/SAIFI metrics)
• Upgrade readiness score (pending vs completed reinforcements)

Each feeder may receive a grade from A+ (solar-ready) to D (needs major upgrades).

Benefits for Solar Consumers

• Know if your area is solar-ready before installing
• Higher accuracy in projected solar generation
• Reduced inverter shutdowns due to voltage drops
• Better planning for hybrid or battery systems
• Transparent information for subsidy applicants

Benefits for EPC Companies & Installers

• Better sizing and component selection
• Reduced service complaints due to grid-related issues
• Avoid installations in unstable feeder zones
• Improved customer satisfaction and trust

Expected Pilot Launch in 2026

The system may first roll out in states with advanced solar penetration:

• Gujarat
• Karnataka
• Haryana
• Maharashtra
• Rajasthan

Officials say the public rating database will help create a more predictable and efficient rooftop solar environment nationwide.

SolSetu will continue reporting as SFHSS-2026 moves forward in technical design and pilot trials.