New Delhi: The Ministry of Power, Government of India, through the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), has unveiled a new Standards and Labeling Program aimed at enhancing the adoption of renewable energy solutions in the country. The initiative, launched by Union Power and New & Renewable Energy Minister R. K. Singh, introduces standards for grid-connected solar inverters, empowering consumers to make informed decisions while contributing to a greener future.
The Standards and Labeling Program, part of BEE’s ongoing efforts to promote energy efficiency, aligns with the government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and advancing sustainable development. By providing clear benchmarks for energy performance and cost-effectiveness, the program enables consumers to select high-quality inverters suitable for solar rooftop systems, thereby driving energy savings and environmental conservation.
The launch event, held in New Delhi, saw the participation of key dignitaries including Union Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary of New & Renewable Energy Bhupinder Singh Bhalla, and senior officials from both ministries. Speaking at the ceremony, Minister R. K. Singh emphasized the pivotal role of the Standards and Labeling Program in reducing carbon dioxide emissions and promoting energy efficiency across the country.
“The S&L Program is an important tool in reducing carbon dioxide emissions,” stated Minister R. K. Singh. “It benefits both consumers and the environment by promoting energy savings and cost-effectiveness. By expanding the program to include grid-connected solar inverters, we aim to further accelerate India’s transition towards clean and sustainable energy solutions.”
Under the voluntary phase of the program, grid-connected solar inverters will be assessed based on minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) and overall efficiency criteria. Only inverters certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and compliant with safety standards will be eligible for participation. The initiative aims to enhance the quality and reliability of solar inverters while facilitating the growth of rooftop solar installations.
Highlighting the potential impact of the program, Minister R. K. Singh underscored its role in bolstering India’s rooftop solar mission. “The rooftop solar program has received a significant boost with PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana,” he remarked. “The S&L Program for grid-connected solar inverters will complement this mission by ensuring the availability of high-quality and efficient inverters for consumers.”
In addition to promoting consumer awareness and product quality, the Standards and Labeling Program for grid-connected solar inverters is expected to yield significant energy savings and carbon dioxide emission reductions. By fostering innovation and market competitiveness, the initiative heralds a new era of sustainability in India’s renewable energy sector.
The launch of the program follows BEE’s recent introduction of similar initiatives for solar panels and other energy-consuming appliances. As India continues its journey towards energy security and environmental stewardship, the Standards and Labeling Program serves as a cornerstone of the nation’s commitment to a cleaner, greener future.