Citizen consumer and civic Action Group (CAG) organised an Orientation and Hands-on Training Programme on Rooftop Solar for Practising Electricians in Salem on 27th June 2026 to equip electricians with the knowledge and practical skills required to participate in Tamil Nadu's growing clean energy sector. The training programme aimed to build the capacity of practising electricians by enhancing their understanding of rooftop solar technology, technical requirements, career pathways, and entrepreneurship opportunities, enabling them to participate effectively in the growing solar industry.
Chief guests, training programme coordinators and CAG representatives with resources created by CAG
Mr. J.M.Boopathi, project-based consultant, CAG, welcomed the participants and highlighted the increasing importance of skilled electricians in achieving India's renewable energy goals. He emphasised that the rapid expansion of rooftop solar installations presents an opportunity for practising electricians to diversify their services and improve their livelihoods.
Mr. G.N. Bharath Ram, Senior Researcher, CAG,during the presentation
Mr. G.N. Bharath Ram, Senior Researcher, CAG, outlined the objectives of the programme and explained the rationale behind organising the training. He emphasised that electricians already possess strong technical foundations in electrical systems and, with additional knowledge of solar technology, can successfully transition into the rooftop solar sector as installers, technicians, service providers, or entrepreneurs.
Mr. Kirubakaran, Researcher, CAG addressing the participants
Mr. Kirubakaran, Researcher, CAG, focused on the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. He explained the objectives of the scheme, subsidy provisions, and the process for consumers to avail financial assistance for rooftop solar installations. The discussion also highlighted the critical role that practising electricians can play in supporting consumers through installation, commissioning, and maintenance services, thereby contributing to the successful implementation of the scheme.
Mr.Rajesh, Solar Expert, explaining the system components
Mr.Rajesh, Solar Expert, NIRT Renewable Energy Private Limited, introduced participants the key components of rooftop solar photovoltaic systems, including solar modules, inverters, mounting structures, protection devices, cables, and connectors. In his presentation, he covered the wiring techniques, MC4 connector assembly, installation procedures, commissioning practices, and essential electrical safety measures.
Participants during the training session
Feedback from the session:
- S. Murugan, electrician, Salem, has been working as a household electrician for several years and initially believed that rooftop solar installation would be an easy extension of his existing work. However, the programme made him realise that solar installations require specialised technical knowledge, safety practices, and proper training. This orientation has motivated him to undergo advanced hands-on training before entering the sector.
A participant during the question and answer session
- Mr. R. Prakash, electrical contractor, Salem mentioned that he came to this programme to understand whether he could work with solar companies on a project or order basis. He already operates an electrical wiring business with a team of electricians, and after attending this session, he feels there is good business potential in rooftop solar.
A participant expressing his interest during the feedback session
- Mr K. Senthil Kumar, electrician, Omalur, stated that he had only heard about solar installations, but this programme helped him understand the actual installation process and the precautions required. He said he would like to attend an advanced hands-on training programme in the future.
During the feedback session, several participants expressed that the orientation programme had helped them understand the technical complexities of rooftop solar installations and highlighted the need for more in-depth practical learning. They specifically requested CAG to organise a two-day residential hands-on training programme that would provide extensive practical exposure to system design, installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and safety practices. Participants also expressed their willingness to enrol in such a programme.