Government Launches ₹2.3 Crore Startup Scheme to Boost Rooftop Solar Installations

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), as per the reports, has launched a ₹2.3 crore innovation challenge to promote rooftop solar and distributed renewable energy solutions. The initiative, called the Innovative Projects Start-Up Challenge, is focused on identifying practical innovations in four categories: affordability, resilience, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability.

Prize Pool and Application Details

Startups and innovators selected through this challenge will compete for a total prize fund of ₹2.3 crore. The top prize is ₹1 crore, followed by ₹50 lakh for 2nd place, ₹30 lakh for 3rd, and 10 consolation prizes of ₹5 lakh each. In addition to the prize money, winners will receive pilot opportunities, incubation support, and mentorship. Applications must be submitted via the Startup India platform by August 20, 2025.

Supporting Organisations and Launch 

The challenge is being implemented by MNRE with support from the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) and in coordination with Startup India and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). It was launched during the National Conference on Skill Development for the Renewable Energy Workforce.

City Accelerator Programme 

Separately, MNRE has introduced the City Accelerator Programme to support rooftop solar adoption at the city level. The programme will initially be implemented in 30 cities across 10 states. It will provide technical assistance to urban local bodies and power distribution companies (discoms), along with guidance on designing local policy and regulatory frameworks. 

Insights from the pilot phase will inform the expansion to 100 cities.

Current Progress and Targets

India is targeting 10 million rooftop solar installations by 2027. The first million was reached in March 2025. As of March 13, the government had disbursed ₹4,770 crore in subsidies to over 6 lakh applicants under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Yojana. Solar energy contributed 92.12 GW to India’s total renewable energy capacity of 203.18 GW as of November 2024.

Read more: Government May Extend Deadline for Solar PLI Projects!

Conclusion

The government is taking multiple steps to promote rooftop solar through startup funding, regulatory support, and local-level implementation programmes.

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