Government Launches New Solar Power Scheme for Tribal and PVTG Communities
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued an order on the financial outlay and funds for the implementation of the new solar power scheme specifically designed for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) habitations and villages. The government has approved a total financial outlay of Rs. 915 crore for the scheme. The funds will be allocated from the Department of Alternative and New Energy (DAPST) of the MNRE.
MNRE Releases Updated List of Approved Solar PV Modules
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has released Revision XXI of the Approved Models and Manufacturers of Solar Photovoltaic Modules (ALMM) Order List-1. This revision includes a list of solar PV modules and manufacturers that meet the latest eligibility criteria for enlistment under the ALMM Order.
MNRE Clarifies ALMM Order Applicability for Open Access and Net-Metering
The MNRE has clarified that the the Approved Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) Order for solar photovoltaic (PV) modules does not apply to open access and net-metering renewable energy projects where the initial application for approval or NOC was submitted before October 1, 2022. This exemption applies to applications made to relevant entities such as distribution licensees, State Transmission Utilities (STUs), State Load Despatch Centers (SLDCs), State Nodal Agencies for Renewable Energy, or Power/ Energy/ Renewable Energy Departments of the State/ UT.
Solar Thermal Systems, Devices and Components (Quality Control) Order, 2024
The Government of India has introduced new regulations for solar thermal systems, devices, and components. Products must bear the Standard Mark issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under Scheme-I of the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. The BIS is responsible for certifying and enforcing compliance with the standards.
Stakeholder Input Sought On Updates In Solar Water Pumping System Standards
Recognizing innovation in solar technology, the MNRE is seeking stakeholder input to revise Specifications of Solar Water Pumping Systems with Positive Displacement Pump and Specifications for SPV Water Pumping System with Micropumps.
MNRE Extends Deadline for Comments on ALMM for Solar PV Cells
It may be recalled that in an earlier notification dated September 7, 2024, the MNRE had sought feedback from stakeholders on the draft amendment to the ALMM order, specifically for including solar PV cells in the list. The initial deadline for submission of comments was fixed as October 6, 2024. The MNRE has extended the deadline until October 21, 2024.
Public Input Sought on “Innovative Projects” Component of PM-Surya Ghar Yojana
The draft guidelines for the Innovative Projects component are available for review. Stakeholders can submit feedback electronically by September 23, 2024. This feedback shall be provided electronically to rts-mnre@gov.in and pmu-rts@gov.in
Public Input Sought on Guidelines for PM-Surya Ghar Yojana’s Payment and Financial Assistance
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is seeking comments and suggestions from stakeholders on the draft guidelines for two key components of the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana: Payment Security Mechanism and Central Financial Assistance. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit their comments and suggestions on the draft guidelines by September 17, 2024
MNRE Seeks Public Input on Approving Solar PV Cell Manufacturers and Models
According to the draft amendment, all projects falling under the purview of ALMM shall have to mandatorily source their solar PV modules from models and manufacturers included in ALMM List-I for solar PV modules. Such solar PV modules in turn shall have to use solar PV cells from amongst the models and manufacturers enlisted in ALMM List-II for solar PV cells.
Government Expands Vendor Base for PM Surya Ghar Scheme
Previously, only vendors registered within UTs were eligible for rooftop solar installations under the scheme. Recognizing the limited availability of vendors in these regions, the MNRE has now allowed vendors from adjacent states to operate in UTs without the need for additional bank guarantees.
