REC has released a guidance framework for vendor operations under PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojna to ensure smooth implementation of the rooftop solar program.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) appointed REC as the national registering authority and the program’s lead implementing agency.

Vendors must provide accurate and complete details during the registration process. Furnishing any false information will lead to the rejection of the application.

Installation standards

Vendors must ensure all rooftop solar systems installed under the program adhere to the minimum technical specifications and quality standards set by MNRE. The distribution companies will check them at the time of inspection.

Vendors should avoid delays in installation and conduct safety checks before handing over the system to the consumer.

They must communicate pricing, including all charges, taxes, and fees. There should be no discrepancies or hidden charges.

Vendors should also educate consumers on system maintenance, safety protocols, and operational guidelines and ensure proper understanding and usage.

Repair and maintenance

Post installation, the vendors must provide free repair and maintenance charges for a minimum of five years. This service period must include repair, replacement of malfunctioning components, and monitoring of the systems to ensure their performance.

The vendor must rectify any issues in the rooftop solar systems leading to non-disbursal of central financial assistance (CFA)/non- commissioning due to system and component quality.

System warranty certification should be provided to the consumer. The complete system should be warranted for five years from the date of commissioning.

REC, DISCOM, or MNRE can inspect installations at any stage. These inspections will assess system quality, adherence to program guidelines, and overall performance.

If the systems do not meet the required standards, are non-functional due to poor installation quality, or do not comply with the program guidelines, the relevant registering authority has the right to de-register the vendor and/or impose penalties as specified after notifying the vendor.

Registered vendors will be given vendor ratings depending on the size and scale of installations, equipment quality, workmanship, service quality, and other criteria.

The guidelines direct the vendors to maintain post-installation service/ helplines that consumers can contact for system maintenance and service-related issues. A timeline for addressing complaints should be established and communicated to the consumer.

Recently, MNRE announced that it will extend CFA to real estate developers/promoters only after submitting an undertaking that the rooftop solar asset supported under the PM Surya Ghar program will be handed over to the group housing society/residential welfare association.

MNRE is also planning to enhance the number of rooftop solar vendors under the program from 8,000 to 25,000.