IIT Delhi launches first academic program at Sonipat campus with solar systems diploma

IIT Delhi has started its first academic offering at its Sonipat campus with the launch of a one-year Postgraduate Diploma in Solar Systems and Management in partnership with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and France’s Institut National de l’Énergie Solaire (INES).

The inaugural batch commenced classes on Sept 3, 2026, with nine international fellows representing eight countries. The program is being conducted by IIT Delhi’s Department of Energy Science and Engineering (DESE).

The hands-on postgraduate program is aimed at developing specialized expertise in solar technologies and their applications among ISA-nominated fellows.

IIT Delhi faculty, industry professionals and other experts will deliver the training, which is sponsored by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

Prof Ramesh Narayanan, Head of DESE, IIT Delhi, said the initiative places the institute at the global forefront of energy education and management. He said the program will train participants from ISA’s 120-plus member countries to serve as trainers at Solar Technology and Application Resource Centres (STAR-C) in member countries.

Prof Somnath Baidya Roy, professor-in-charge of the IIT Delhi Sonipat campus, said the institute intends to introduce additional programs of this nature in the coming years.

Following completion of the diploma, the ISA fellows will undergo a one-month internship in Europe, where they will receive exposure to applied solar technologies. They will then be placed at STAR-C centers in their respective countries.

The STAR-C centers aim to develop technical skills, infrastructure and innovation ecosystems across ISA member countries to support faster solar energy adoption. They are also intended to strengthen institutional capabilities, generate green employment and contribute to sustainable economic development.

The diploma program follows a Framework for Action (FFA) signed by IIT Delhi and the ISA earlier this year. The agreement provides a framework for collaboration in renewable energy, particularly in capacity building, academic partnerships and human resource development across ISA member countries.