The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, has launched a new initiative called the Innovative Projects Start-Up Challenge to promote new ideas in rooftop solar and distributed renewable energy technologies. The announcement was made during the National Conference on Skill Development for the Renewable Energy Workforce held at Atal Akshay Urja Bhawan in New Delhi. This challenge is supported by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) and coordinated with StartUp India, DPIIT.
The main goal of the challenge is to find and support startups that can provide innovative solutions to improve India’s rooftop solar and distributed energy systems. The challenge is open to Indian innovators and startups working in sectors like green technology, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, construction, energy hardware, financial technology (fintech), and waste management.
There are four key categories in this challenge. The first is affordability, which focuses on making rooftop solar more affordable for low- and middle-income households. Ideas could include new financing models, modular systems, or ways to reuse materials. The second category is resilience, which aims to make solar infrastructure more reliable in terms of climate resilience, cybersecurity, and grid stability, especially in remote or vulnerable areas.
The third category is inclusivity, which involves finding ways to make solar power more accessible to underserved communities. This could be through community solar projects, virtual net metering, or financing models that are inclusive. The fourth and final category is environmental sustainability. Startups are encouraged to come up with eco-friendly technologies such as solar panel recycling, using land-neutral systems, or creating hybrid energy models that combine solar with other clean energy sources.
The prize pool for the challenge is ₹2.3 crore. The winner will receive ₹1 crore, the second prize is ₹50 lakh, and the third prize is ₹30 lakh. Additionally, 10 consolation prizes of ₹5 lakh each will be awarded. Along with the prize money, winners will also receive incubation support, pilot project opportunities, and mentorship from experts and investors, all organized by MNRE and NISE.
The last date to apply is 20th August 2025, and the results will be announced on 10th September 2025. Interested startups can apply through the Startup India website. This initiative is expected to encourage innovation and speed up the adoption of clean energy in India.
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