The PM Surya Ghar scheme, also known as Muft Bijli Yojana, was launched by the Indian government in 2024 with the goal of providing free electricity to households through rooftop solar systems. Aimed at reducing carbon emissions, encouraging clean energy, and helping households save on electricity bills, this ambitious initiative targets the installation of solar systems in 10 million homes across the nation. While the scheme has gained momentum and over 630,000 households have already benefitted from it, the rapid expansion has brought some quality-related challenges to the forefront.

The Rise of Quality Issues in Rooftop Solar Installations

As more and more households participate in the PM Surya Ghar initiative, quality concerns regarding rooftop solar installations have emerged. These issues not only affect the longevity and efficiency of the solar systems but also have the potential to hinder the success of the program if not addressed appropriately. Some of the most common and significant quality challenges that have surfaced include:

1. Inconsistent Component Standards: The Lack of Uniformity in Balance of System (BoS) Components

Balance of Systems (BoS) refers to all components of a rooftop solar system, apart from the solar panels (modules), such as mounting structures, wiring, inverters, and safety equipment. While solar panel manufacturing standards have been well established in India, there is a distinct lack of regulatory standards governing the quality of BoS components.

• Mounting Structures: Poor-quality mounting systems can lead to the failure of the solar panel array over time, especially if the rooftop installation is exposed to harsh weather conditions. Substandard mounting structures can result in the misalignment of solar panels, reducing efficiency or even causing physical damage to both panels and the rooftop itself.
• Inverters: As the component that converts DC power into AC power, inverters play a critical role in the overall performance of a solar system. Low-quality inverters can lead to power inefficiencies, reduced lifespan of the system, and, in some cases, even safety hazards due to overheating or malfunctioning.
• Wiring and Electrical Connections: The quality of wiring and electrical connections can significantly affect the long-term performance of the system. Inadequate or poor-quality wiring can lead to power loss, short circuits, or even fire hazards in extreme cases.

2. Inverter Quality and Impact on Power Output

Inverters are central to any rooftop solar installation, and their quality is a key determinant of the system’s efficiency and reliability. There are various issues that can arise from using low-quality inverters, including:

• Power Loss: A poor-quality inverter may not be able to convert all the available solar energy effectively, which can lead to power loss and reduced overall efficiency.
• Frequent Failures: Low-quality inverters often suffer from technical failures, resulting in system downtime, increased maintenance costs, and possibly even the need for early replacement.
• Voltage Fluctuations: Inferior inverters may fail to regulate the voltage properly, leading to power quality issues. This could cause voltage fluctuations that may damage home appliances or affect the overall grid stability, especially in areas with high solar penetration.

3. Structural Integrity of Rooftops

Another critical issue for rooftop solar installations is the integrity of the rooftop structure itself. Many residential buildings were not originally designed to bear the weight of solar panels and other components.

• Load-bearing Concerns: Overloading the roof with heavy solar panels or mounting structures can lead to damage to the roof, which may cause leakage, structural damage, or in extreme cases, collapse. Residential buildings that are older or constructed using lightweight materials may be more susceptible to these risks.
• Roof Design Compatibility: The design of certain rooftops might not be suitable for solar panel installations, particularly flat roofs or those with poor drainage. In such cases, the installation process becomes more complex and requires additional planning and reinforcement, which not all installers may account for.

4. Safety Concerns During Installation

The swift pace of solar installations under the PM Surya Ghar scheme has raised concerns about the safety protocols followed by solar installers.

• Untrained Installers: With the increasing demand for rooftop solar systems, there is a growing shortage of adequately trained and certified installers. If the installation is not done correctly, it can pose a significant risk to both property and human safety. Improper handling of electrical components, insufficient protection against weather elements, or incorrectly installed mounting structures can lead to fires, electrical shocks, or damage to the solar equipment.
• Lack of Safety Standards: There is a significant gap in safety guidelines, especially with regard to residential installations. A lack of clear regulations or training standards for installers can lead to non-compliance with safety norms and expose consumers to potential hazards.

5. Warranty and Maintenance Challenges

Given the scale of installations under the PM Surya Ghar program, there has been a rise in complaints regarding post-installation services, such as:

• Unreliable Warranties: Some consumers have reported difficulties in accessing warranty services or repairs. This has often been due to a lack of clear guidelines on warranty coverage or the reluctance of some companies to honor their warranty agreements.
• Lack of Regular Maintenance: Since rooftop solar systems are exposed to the elements, regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring their continued performance. Many consumers, especially in rural areas, may not have access to reliable service providers for maintenance, leading to underperformance or equipment failure over time.

Recommendations to Address These Challenges

To ensure the long-term success of the PM Surya Ghar program, it is essential to address the quality-related challenges that have surfaced. The following actions are critical:

1. Standardization and Regulation of BoS Components

• Set Clear Standards: Establish and enforce standardized quality parameters for BoS components like mounting structures, inverters, wiring, and electrical components. A uniform set of quality standards will ensure that all installations meet minimum performance and safety requirements.
• Certification for Installers: Only certified and trained solar installers should be allowed to conduct installations. This will help prevent issues related to poor workmanship and ensure that installations are carried out safely and effectively.

2. Strengthen Safety and Installation Protocols

• Mandatory Safety Protocols: Create and implement clear safety guidelines for rooftop solar installations, which should include safety procedures, protective gear for installers, and safety checks during and after installation.
• Consumer Awareness: Increase consumer awareness about the risks of substandard installations and the importance of using certified installers and high-quality components.

3. Monitor and Enforce Warranty Clauses

• Clear Warranty Guidelines: Strengthen the enforcement of warranty clauses to ensure that consumers can access reliable post-installation services. Manufacturers and installers should be required to provide clear information about warranty coverage and the process for claiming repairs or replacements.
• Improved Maintenance Support: Establish a network of service centers that provide regular maintenance and repairs for solar systems, ensuring that systems continue to perform optimally for their intended lifespan.

Conclusion

While the PM Surya Ghar initiative is a significant step towards promoting renewable energy and reducing carbon footprints in India, the quality challenges associated with rooftop solar systems must be addressed for the program’s continued success. By focusing on standardization, safety, training, and consumer education, the government and industry stakeholders can ensure that the transition to solar energy remains sustainable, cost-effective, and safe for all participants.