New Delhi | October 15, 2026
India’s rooftop solar programme is expanding employment opportunities and encouraging local entrepreneurship, with the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana registering more than 37,000 vendors and training over 2.5 lakh people for the growing solar energy sector.
The scheme is expected to generate around 17 lakh direct and indirect jobs across manufacturing, logistics, installation, maintenance and related services. The initiative aims to expand clean energy adoption while strengthening India’s domestic renewable energy ecosystem.
More Than 2.5 Lakh People Trained for Solar Jobs
Developing a skilled workforce is a key part of the programme. More than 2.5 lakh people have received training through institutions and organisations supporting the renewable energy sector, including the National Institute of Solar Energy, the National Power Training Institute and the Skill Council for Green Jobs.
The broader plan targets around three lakh skilled personnel, including one lakh specialised Solar Photovoltaic (PV) technicians. The expanding workforce is expected to create opportunities for electricians, solar installers, maintenance technicians and other professionals.
Over 37,000 Vendors Strengthen Local Businesses
The scheme’s vendor network now includes more than 37,000 registered businesses. These vendors support rooftop solar sales, installation and servicing across cities, towns and districts.
The growing network offers potential business opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises, local electricians, technicians and new entrepreneurs. It can also improve access to solar installation services for households seeking to reduce their dependence on conventional electricity.
One Crore Household Target Drives Solar Expansion
Launched in February 2024 with an outlay of ₹75,021 crore, the PM Surya Ghar scheme aims to provide rooftop solar installations to one crore households.
Recent reports indicate that the programme has crossed the 60-lakh household milestone, with approximately 17.9 GW of rooftop solar capacity added under the scheme. India’s overall installed solar capacity has also expanded significantly, reaching more than 168 GW, according to the report.
Domestic Manufacturing Expected to Benefit
The growing demand for rooftop solar installations is expected to support Indian manufacturers of solar modules, cells, inverters, cables and mounting structures.
An expanding installation base can also create opportunities in warehousing, transportation, distribution and after-sales maintenance. Building domestic supply chains alongside skilled labour and local businesses will be important for sustaining the sector’s growth.
Clean Energy and Employment Go Hand in Hand
The PM Surya Ghar scheme combines household solar adoption with workforce development and entrepreneurship. While the projected 17 lakh jobs represent an estimate rather than confirmed employment, the expanding vendor network and training programmes indicate growing demand for solar-related skills and services.
The programme’s long-term impact will depend on continued installations, access to finance, training quality and the ability of local businesses to deliver reliable services.
