The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, rolls out the Innovative Projects Start-Up Challenge on Rooftop Solar (RTS) and Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technologies during the National Conference on Skill Development for the Renewable Energy Workforce at Atal Akshay Urja Bhawan, New Delhi. The challenge aims to identify and support breakthrough solutions for India's rooftop solar and distributed energy ecosystem. 

The applications for the challenge begin on 20th August 2025 and close on 10th September 2025. The challenge will be implemented under the aegis of MNRE with support from the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) and in coordination with StartUp India and DPIIT.

To read about the recent support announced by C-Dot for 18 communication and ICT-based startups, click here !

About the Challenge 

The challenge creates scope for a wide range of startups in green tech, IoT, AI, blockchain, construction, energy hardware, fintech, and waste management. The Start-Up Challenge seeks applications from innovators and startups in India, focusing on four key categories to boost renewable energy adoption:

1. Affordability – Startups that aspire to make rooftop solar affordable for low- and middle-income households using innovative financing, modular systems, and circular economy strategies.
2. Resilience – Startups that aspire to enhance climate resilience, grid stability, and cybersecurity in solar infrastructure, especially for vulnerable and remote areas.
3. Inclusivity –  Startups that aspire to expand access to underserved communities through community solar, virtual net metering, and inclusive financing models.
4. Environmental Sustainability –  Startups that aspire to promote eco-friendly technologies such as solar panel recycling, land-neutral solar deployment, and hybrid clean energy models.

To read about DPIIT's latest collaboration with YourStory, click here!  

Prize Pool 

Selected innovators or startups will compete for a ₹2.3 crore prize pool, with ₹1 crore awarded to the top winner, ₹50 lakh for second place, ₹30 lakh for third, and 10 consolation prizes of ₹5 lakh each. In addition to the cash awards, winners will receive incubation support, pilot implementation opportunities, and mentorship from industry experts and investors.