Skill Development Programme in Solar Energy
If you’re interested in upskilling or learning about Solar Energy, the Skill Development Programme is an excellent choice. Spearheaded by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), this program plays a crucial role in creating a skilled workforce to meet the demands of the rapidly growing solar energy sector. Let’s delve into the key initiatives under this program.
The Skill Development Programme in Solar Energy
1. Suryamitra (Solar PV Technician) Programme
Objective: To develop skilled technicians for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.
Training Institutes: The program is implemented by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) in collaboration with state nodal agencies across India.
Duration: A three-month residential program (600 hours) covering classroom training, lab practicals, exposure to solar PV plants, on-the-job training, soft skills, and entrepreneurship.
Eligibility: Participants must have at least a 10th-grade education and an ITI (Industrial Training Institute) qualification in Electrician, Wireman, Electronics Mechanic, Fitter, or Sheet Metal.
Funding: Aligned with the norms set by the Ministry of Skill and Entrepreneur Development (MSDE).
Certification: Skill Council of Green Jobs (SCGJ) or other MSDE-approved institutions.
Impact
Over 51,529 Suryamitras have been trained as of December 2022.
These skilled technicians contribute to solar project installation, operation, and maintenance both in India and abroad.
2. Varunmitra (Solar Water Pumping Technician) Programme
Context: Under the PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahaabhiyan) scheme, which aims to replace diesel pumps with solar water pumps, trained manpower is essential.
Objective: To create a skilled workforce for installing, commissioning, repairing, and maintaining solar water pumps.
Implementation: Conducted by NISE.
Trained Workforce: Known as “Varunmitras”.
Awareness: The program educates participants about solar water pumping technology.
Current Status
The program continues to train and skill individuals to support the widespread adoption of solar water pumps.
Vayumitra (Wind Energy Technician) Programme
Objective: To train Wind Power Plant Technicians for wind energy projects.
Implementation: Launched by NISE.
Target: Developing 5,734 skilled manpower over three years.
Conclusion
The Skill Development Programme in solar and renewable energy technologies not only empowers individuals but also contributes significantly to India’s clean energy transition. As we harness the power of the sun and wind, these skilled professionals play a vital role in shaping a sustainable future.
