Orientation programme on rooftop solar technician master training | Madurai

As part of its efforts to strengthen green skills among young professionals, the Citizen consumer and civic Action Group (CAG) organised Solar Orientation and Career Awareness Programmes across selected technical institutions in Madurai district. The initiative sought to equip students with foundational knowledge of rooftop solar technology, create awareness about employment opportunities in the renewable energy sector, and encourage them to prepare for careers in one of India's fastest-growing industries.

The sessions were held at

1. 24.06.2026 Wednesday, Time 10 a.m to  1 p.m, at Tamil Nadu Government Polytechnic Men's College, Madurai.
2. 24.06.2026 Wednesday, Time 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., at Tamil Nadu Government Polytechnic Women's College, Madurai 
3. 25.06.206 Thursday, Time 10 am to 1 pm at Government Industrial Training Institute, K.pudur, Madurai
4. 25.06.206 Thursday, Time 2 pm to 5 pm at Don Bosco Industrial Training Institute, Madurai
5. 29.06.2026, Monday, Time 10 am to 1 pm at K.L.N.Memorial Polytechnic College, Madurai
6. 29.06.2026, Monday, Time 2 pm to 5 pm at Sri Solaimalai Polytechnic College, Madurai

The orientation programmes were conducted across six government and private Polytechnic Colleges and Industrial Training Institutes, reaching 250 final-year students from Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Electrician, and Mechanical Auto Electrical & Electronics disciplines.

Mrs. V. Thenmozhi, Principal, Tamil Nadu Government Polytechnic Men's College, during the introductory session

The programme commenced with an inaugural address by Mrs. V. Thenmozhi, Principal, Tamil Nadu Government Polytechnic Men's College, who emphasised the importance of skill development programmes in emerging sectors such as solar and wind energy. She highlighted that short-term, industry-oriented training programmes complement the regular curriculum by exposing students to evolving technologies and creating interest in pursuing careers in the renewable energy sector.

Mr. Bharath Ram, Senior Researcher, CAG addressing the participants

Mr. Bharath Ram, Senior Researcher,CAG, welcomed the participants and introduced the organisation and the objectives of the programme. He explained that the orientation programme forms the first stage of a structured skilling initiative, through which selected students would be invited to participate in an intensive two-day Master Class on Rooftop Solar Installation. He also informed the participants that experts from the solar industry would share practical knowledge, discuss current industry trends, explain employment opportunities and provide insights into career growth and remuneration within the sector. He further emphasised the growing demand for skilled professionals to support India's expanding rooftop solar market and encouraged students to consider renewable energy as a promising career pathway.

Mr. Kirubakaran, Researcher, CAG, explaining the participants

Mr. Kirubakaran, Researcher, CAG, introduced students to the fundamentals of solar energy and briefly explained the key components of a rooftop solar photovoltaic system. His session served as a foundation for the technical sessions that followed, enabling students to better understand the concepts that would be demonstrated by the industry experts.

Mr. Satheesh, Solar Expert, explaining the solar panel 

The technical sessions were conducted by Mr. Satheesh, Mr Shankar, and Mr.Vinoth, solar experts at SELCO Solar Light Pvt. Ltd., who provided comprehensive insights into rooftop solar photovoltaic systems. The sessions covered the major components of a solar PV system, installation techniques, electrical safety measures, operation and maintenance practices, and industry best practices. Through live demonstrations using actual solar components, students were able to gain practical exposure to system assembly and understand the functioning of rooftop solar installations beyond theoretical concepts.

Mr.Vinoth, Solar Expert, during the presentation

Throughout the programme, CAG facilitated interactive discussions and question-and-answer sessions that encouraged active student participation.

Question and answer session:

1. Types of solar panels and their differences, such as mono vs poly panels?
2. Which direction should the panel be erected?
3. What type of earthing should be installed in the RTS?
4. When will solar panels generate less electricity? How? Why?
5. What is the solar panel's lifetime warranty?
6. How do you calculate solar capacity if your bimonthly electricity consumption is 500 units?
7. What is the usage of SPD vs MCB? Where is it used?

A student asking a question during the session

Based on their technical understanding and active participation during the sessions, five students from each institution were shortlisted for an advanced two-day Master Class on Rooftop Solar Installation. The selection process was intended to identify motivated students who could further enhance their technical competencies through intensive practical training and industry interaction.

A Professor from K.L.N.Memorial Polytechnic College addressed the students

The orientation programme successfully generated awareness about career opportunities in the renewable energy sector and demonstrated the strong interest among technical students in acquiring industry-relevant skills. It also highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships between educational institutions and the solar industry to bridge the gap between technical education and workforce requirements. Through initiatives such as these, CAG aims to contribute towards building a skilled workforce capable of supporting India's clean energy transition while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for young professionals. 

Students during the question and answer session

Feedback from the students:

1. Mr. A, II Year Electrician Trade, Government ITI, before attending this programme, I thought solar jobs were limited to panel installation. Today, I learned about the wide range of career opportunities available in design, installation, maintenance, and manufacturing. The session has motivated me to consider the solar sector as a long-term career after completing my course.
2. Mr.B, Diploma in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Polytechnic Student, the interaction with the industry expert helped me understand the skills expected by employers in the rooftop solar sector. I realised that technical knowledge, practical training, and safety practices are equally important. I would be interested in attending a two-day hands-on training programme to improve my employability.
3. Mr. C., Final Year Electrician Trade, Government ITI, this orientation programme changed my perception of the renewable energy sector. I was not aware that the solar industry offers opportunities for both employment and entrepreneurship. The practical demonstration increased my confidence, and I look forward to participating in advanced training and securing a job in the rooftop solar industry.