Upscaling residential solar rooftop in Uttar Pradesh: review of policy, practices and stakeholders perspective, identification of challenges and solutions

This research paper examines the barriers and solutions related to the adoption of residential rooftop solar (R-RTS) in Uttar Pradesh. Despite government policy interventions, R-RTS uptake remains limited compared to the state’s energy consumption-based potential. The study systematically analyses key adoption issues, stakeholder perspectives, policy landscape and identifies critical issues such as policy gaps, implementation challenges, and stakeholder collaboration deficits through policy review, stakeholder analysis, and adoption drivers. Methodologically, the study employs a mixed qualitative approach, including document analysis, stakeholder consultations, and field insights. The study proposes following actionable solutions: i) Policy interventions for subsidies beyond 3 kW. ii) Relaxation on system capacity limits. iii) Enhanced compensation for excess electricity injected into the grid. iv) Strategies to improve vendor participation. v) Addressing DISCOM inefficiencies regarding net meter availability and verification delays. vi) Speedier subsidy transfers. vii) Targeted awareness campaigns. The research highlights the importance of post-installation service ecosystems, advocating for skilled manpower development and product standardization to improve local service access. The intended policy outcome is to create a more enabling environment for residential R-RTS adoption, supporting climate goals and decentralized renewable energy expansion. This paper provides a structured roadmap for policymakers, vendors, consumers, and implementors to scale rooftop solar adoption in Uttar Pradesh.