MNRE Launches INR 2.3 Cr Start-Up Challenge for Rooftop Solar and Distributed RE Technologies
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has launched the Innovative Projects Start-Up Challenge to identify and support breakthrough solutions in rooftop solar and distributed renewable energy, offering a prize pool of INR 2.3 crore and incubation support to startups. Last date for submission of application is August 20, 2025.
June 23, 2025. By Mrinmoy Dey
This unique national innovation challenge aims to identify and support breakthrough solutions for India's rooftop solar and distributed energy ecosystem. It is being implemented under the aegis of MNRE with support from the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), and in coordination with StartUp India, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
The last date for submission of application is August 20, 2025. The results will be announced on September 10, 2025.
“The Start-Up Challenge seeks applications from innovators and startups in India, focusing on four key categories to boost renewable energy adoption – affordability, resilience, inclusivity and environmental sustainability,” said MNRE in a statement.
The first category focuses on making rooftop solar affordable for low- and middle-income households using innovative financing, modular systems, and circular economy strategies.
The second category will emphasise enhancing climate resilience, grid stability, and cybersecurity in solar infrastructure, especially for vulnerable and remote areas.
The third category will aim to expand access to underserved communities through community solar, virtual net metering, and inclusive financing models.
And, the fourth category will promote eco-friendly technologies such as solar panel recycling, land-neutral solar deployment, and hybrid clean energy models.
The challenge welcomes a wide range of startups in green tech, IoT, AI, blockchain, construction, energy hardware, fintech, and waste management.
The selected innovators will compete for a total prize pool of INR 2.3 crore, including INR 1 crore for 1st Prize, INR 50 lakh for 2nd Prize, INR 30 lakh for 3rd Prize, and 10 Consolation Prizes of INR 5 lakh each. “Winners will also gain incubation support, pilot implementation opportunities, and mentorship from domain experts and investors, facilitated by MNRE and NISE,” it said.
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