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On August 7, 2024, the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) issued an amendment to the Approved Models and Manufacturers of Solar Photovoltaic Modules (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2019. This amendment introduces two new clauses and modifies an existing one to enhance the regulation and monitoring of solar PV manufacturers in India.
The key change to sub-para 1.2.2 of Para 1.2 clarifies the conditions under which provisional enlistment becomes final. Previously, factory inspections and final enlistments were to be completed within two months from the receipt of the application. If not completed, the provisional enlistment would be deemed final. The amendment specifies that this automatic finalization only applies if the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) has completed the inspection but has not submitted its recommendation to MNRE. If delays are caused by the solar PV manufacturers, the provisional enlistment will be revoked. All deemed enlistments will be reviewed, and NISE must report the reasons for any delays in inspection and procedures to MNRE within two months.
Additionally, the amendment introduces Clause 1.7, which mandates the use of a portal operated by NISE for collecting data on production, sales, and exports from solar PV manufacturers. Existing ALMM enlisted manufacturers must enter this data for their facilities from April 2023 onwards within four weeks from the issuance of this Office Memorandum (O.M.). Failure to comply will result in delisting from the ALMM. Future applications for enlistment, renewal, or model addition must include a certificate from the manufacturer confirming data entry on this portal, or the application will be rejected.
Another significant addition is Clause 1.8, which establishes a portal for ensuring the traceability of domestically manufactured solar PV cells and modules. This portal will aid in verifying the Domestic Content Requirement (DCR) in solar PV modules used in the country. Existing ALMM enlisted manufacturers must register their facilities and begin entering data on the modules and cells they manufacture within one month of the O.M.’s issuance. This portal will become the exclusive mechanism for DCR verification. If a claimed DCR-compliant module fails verification, the manufacturer may face penalties as per MNRE’s October 16, 2023, guidelines.
Future ALMM applications must also be accompanied by a certificate confirming that data entry on the portal has been completed. Non-compliance will lead to the rejection of the application.
This amendment underscores the Indian government’s commitment to rigorous monitoring and regulation of the solar PV manufacturing sector, aiming to ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to domestic content requirements. These measures are expected to bolster the integrity of the solar PV manufacturing process and support the growth of the renewable energy sector in India.
The directive, approved by the Hon’ble Minister of New & Renewable Energy, emphasizes the need for strict compliance by all stakeholders. The changes are aimed at streamlining the registration process and ensuring that all necessary data is accurately recorded and verified. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance the sustainability and reliability of India’s solar energy infrastructure. |
