Vendor qualification must protect consumers and honest EPCs

REAR's post-event report records a recommendation to MNRE for uniform Technical Qualification Criteria for rooftop solar vendor empanelment.

The proposed criteria included installation experience, certified or trained manpower, technical standards, electrical and structural safety, and ongoing maintenance capability. These are recommendations in the event report, not evidence of an adopted nationwide rule.

Good qualification design has to balance two risks: poor-quality entry that damages consumers, and overly restrictive conditions that disadvantage competent small EPC firms. Transparent, proportionate criteria and independent verification matter.