Solar Industry in India: Opportunities for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

The green energy sector is experiencing explosive growth, with solar power leading the charge. The solar job market in India is poised for unprecedented growth, driven by the government’s initiatives in achieving renewable energy targets and supportive policies. As the demand for clean energy solutions rises, so does the need for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs who can innovate, design, install, and maintain solar panel systems.

The government of India has introduced the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, a pioneering initiative aimed at transitioning 10 million households to solar power. This scheme not only facilitates the installation of solar panels through substantial subsidies but also recognizes the critical need for a skilled workforce and entrepreneurial ventures in the burgeoning solar sector.

By committing to train 100,000 individuals in solar panel installation and maintenance, the government is fostering the growth of clean energy while catalyzing significant job creation and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Government Initiatives for the Solar Industry

The government is actively supporting the solar industry through various initiatives:

• PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana: Launched in February 2024, this program aims to boost rooftop solar adoption. It offers free panel installation (up to 300 units of free power monthly!), subsidies (up to Rs. 78,000), and easy financing. This initiative promotes clean energy, creates jobs, and allows homeowners to track their project progress through an online portal: PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
• Suryamitra Skill Development Programme (SSDP): The Suryamitra program equips young people with the skills needed for jobs in solar power project installation, operation, and maintenance. It particularly focuses on unemployed youth, women, and those from rural backgrounds.

A Booming Job Market

Government initiatives like those mentioned above are accelerating the adoption of solar power in India. This surge in demand is expected to create numerous job opportunities and entrepreneurial ventures for solar technicians in the coming years. By training one lakh individuals, the government aims to empower entrepreneurs who can start their own businesses, thereby creating further employment opportunities for those involved in installing solar panels under the Bijili Yojana.

Become a Solar Panel Technician

Solar panel technicians are the backbone of the solar industry. They are responsible for the entire lifecycle of a solar panel system, from initial site assessment and installation to ongoing maintenance and troubleshooting. This dynamic career offers the chance to work outdoors, contribute to environmental sustainability, and utilize technical skills.

Exploring Career Opportunities in Solar Energy

Fortunately, several resources are available to help you enter the solar industry. Government-sponsored training programs like Solar Pathshala and NISE Suryamitra offer comprehensive courses that equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge. These programs are a cost-effective way to gain a strong foundation in solar technology.

In addition to government programs, several private institutions and online platforms provide solar technician training. These courses can delve deeper into specific areas like system design or inverter technology.

Here are a few institutions offering solar panel courses you can explore:

• Institute For Industrial Development: Offers a course on Solar Panel Manufacturing Technology. For more information, click here to visit their website.
• Institute of Solar Technology: Offers courses on Solar Project Design and PV Solar Operation Maintenance and more.
• Gujarat Institute of Solar Energy (GISE): Offers a variety of courses on solar energy, ranging from basic knowledge to specific skills in short-term workshops, and collaborates with GERMI for a rooftop solar photovoltaic installer certification program.
• National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE): Offers courses on Solar Photovoltaic Division, Solar Thermal Division, Solar Resource Assessment Division and more. For more information, visit their website – https://nise.res.in/
• Solar Pathshala: A government-sponsored program by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in collaboration with GIZ, offering online courses in solar panel design, installation, and maintenance – perfect for anyone interested in the solar energy field!
• Indian Institute of Solar Energy (IISE): This institute offers courses on industry-leading technical training for various from PG Diploma to Certificate Training Program in solar panel technician, solar structure design for engineers and more.

Also read: Green Jobs: Training and Employment Opportunities in the Green Industry in India

Ensuring Standardized Skills for a Solar Expert

The National Qualification Registry (NQR) plays a crucial role in ensuring standardized skills within the solar technician workforce. Compliance with NQR’s Occupational Standards (QP-NOS) guarantees that technicians possess the necessary competencies to perform their duties safely and effectively.

Whether you’re a recent graduate or seeking a career change in this field, the solar industry offers a promising path forward. By equipping yourself with the necessary skills and qualifications, you can become a valuable asset in this rapidly growing field. Explore the resources mentioned above and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in solar energy!