The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has notified a standardised branding framework for rooftop solar systems installed under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSG: MBY), aiming to ensure uniform identification and visibility of projects implemented through the Centre’s flagship residential solar programme.
The new guidelines, issued through an Office Memorandum, apply to rooftop solar installations executed under both the Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) and Utility-Led Aggregation (ULA) models. The ministry said the initiative is intended to establish consistent branding across installations as the government works towards its target of installing rooftop solar systems in one crore households by FY 2026-27.
- Applies to CAPEX and ULA installations.
- Covers PV modules, inverters and ACDBs.
- Mandatory for all PM Surya Ghar vendors.
According to the framework, all empanelled vendors undertaking installations under the scheme must display the PM Surya Ghar logo on key system components, including solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, solar inverters, AC Distribution Boxes (ACDBs), and other equipment. MNRE has also released illustrative diagrams specifying the correct placement of the logo on each component.
- Logo placement specified for all components.
- Durable, weather-resistant stickers mandatory.
- Non-compliance may lead to vendor penalties.
For solar PV modules, vendors are required to affix the logo on the lower right corner of the front aluminium frame. The ministry has specified that at least one logo sticker must be provided for every kilowatt of installed capacity, with a minimum of one sticker on each module. The recommended sticker size is 25 mm × 25 mm, and the branding should not cover manufacturer nameplates, serial numbers, QR codes, warranty details, technical specifications, or safety labels.
For solar inverters and ACDBs, the guidelines prescribe a 50 mm × 50 mm logo sticker to be placed on the lower right corner of the front exterior surface. The ministry has clarified that branding must not obstruct equipment displays, ventilation openings, safety instructions, regulatory markings, or other essential information.
MNRE has further directed that all branding materials should be durable and suitable for outdoor conditions, with properties such as UV resistance, weather resistance, waterproofing, and corrosion resistance to ensure long-term visibility. Vendors will also be responsible for replacing damaged or worn-out stickers during the Comprehensive Maintenance Contract (CMC) period. The ministry has made it clear that no additional Central Financial Assistance (CFA) will be provided for branding, and the associated costs must be borne by vendors.
The guidelines also assign responsibility to the National Programme Implementation Agency (NPIA), State Implementing Agencies (SIAs), and DISCOMs to inspect rooftop solar installations during and after commissioning to verify compliance. These agencies have been authorised to recommend modifications or seek rectification wherever branding does not meet the prescribed standards.
MNRE has warned that vendors failing to comply with the branding requirements may face regulatory action after due notice, including possible de-registration and other penalties under the applicable provisions. The move is expected to improve the visibility and uniform identity of installations under the PM Surya Ghar programme while strengthening quality monitoring and implementation across the country’s rapidly expanding rooftop solar sector.
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