MNRE Clarifies ALMM Order For Solar PV Modules: Applicability Starting 10th April 2024
The MNRE has clarified that the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) Order for solar PV modules applies only to projects with bid submission deadlines on or after April 10, 2021. This memorandum aims to eliminate confusion, ensuring that projects submitted before this date are exempt from the ALMM Order for List I (Modules). This clarification, approved by the competent authority within MNRE, is crucial for project developers and bidders to ensure proper regulatory compliance and streamline solar PV project implementation in India.
Himachal Pradesh Streamlines Draft Regulations For Rooftop Solar PV Systems With Third Amendments
The Himachal Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission has introduced the Third Amendment Regulations of 2024 to streamline rooftop solar PV systems’ regulatory process. Effective upon publication, these amendments designate HIMURJA and the State Electricity Board as the implementing agencies. Key changes include simplified registration, shorter timelines for approvals, and technical feasibility study exemptions for systems up to 10 kW. Aimed at reducing delays and enhancing efficiency, these amendments promote solar energy adoption and offer financial assistance to consumers in Himachal Pradesh.
NTPC Awards 1.58 GW DCR Solar Modules Contract to Emmvee, Vikram Solar And ReNew
NTPC Renewable Energy Limited announced Emmvee, Vikram Solar, and ReNew as winners of its auction for 1.58 GW of bifacial solar modules for 1,255 MW projects at Khavda Solar Park, Gujarat. Emmvee secured 795.4 MW, Vikram Solar won 397.70 MW, and ReNew received 391.50 MW. Modules, under the domestic content requirement, must be supplied within 245 days. The auction, initiated in September 2023, underscores NTPC REL’s commitment to boosting India’s renewable energy through transparent, competitive bidding.
ReNew Partners with Societe Generale For USD 1 Billion In Financing And Advisory Solutions For Renewable Energy Projects
India’s ReNew signed an MoU with Societe Generale to support the financing and development of energy transition projects. The agreement includes up to USD 1 billion in debt financing and advisory solutions over three years, focusing on solar, wind, green hydrogen, and more. This partnership aims to accelerate ReNew’s renewable energy initiatives and contribute to India’s net zero goals.
Onix Renewable Limited Secures 187 MW Solar Projects In Gujarat Under PM-KUSUM
Onix Renewable Limited has announced that its subsidiary, Onix Trans Stellar, has been awarded 187 MW of solar projects under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Uthan Mahabhiyaan (PM-KUSUM) scheme. These projects will be distributed across 60 different locations in Gujarat. The PPA for these projects has been signed with Paschim Gujarat Vij Company Limited. Onix Trans Stellar secured these projects by winning bids in auctions conducted by the Government of Gujarat. The projects fall under Component C of the PM-KUSUM scheme, which focuses on feeder-level solarisation.
Orb Energy’s New 35 MW Solar Park Set to Boost SME Power Needs in Karnataka
Orb Energy, has inaugurated its first 35 MW (DC) ground-mounted solar park in Arsikere, Hassan district. The 110-acre park is designed to produce 5.24 crore units of green power annually, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 45,000 tons each year. This initiative specifically aims to empower SMEs in the region. Orb Energy announced plans to develop and commission approximately 400 MW of solar parks for SMEs across India by the end of the decade, with a projected investment of around ₹2,000 crore.
Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission Sets Tariffs For Renewable Energy Projects For FY 2024-25
The Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission has issued a draft order to determine tariffs for various renewable energy technologies for FY 2024-25. Covering small hydro, non-fossil fuel cogeneration, solar PV (0.5-2 MW), and biogas projects, the order also sets energy charges for existing biomass plants and fixed charges for those that began operations in 2008-09. The commission’s standard tariff ensures financial clarity and sustainability for developers. Key provisions include capital cost norms, a 70:30 debt-to-equity ratio, a 16.78% return on equity, and specified operational costs. This initiative promotes fair and predictable tariffs, fostering renewable energy growth in Chhattisgarh.
Indian Government Plans National Portal To Enhance Solar Agricultural Pump Installations Under PM-KUSUM Scheme
The Indian government plans to improve the PM-KUSUM scheme by launching a national portal to connect farmers with vendors, aiming to streamline solar agricultural pump installations. This initiative, similar to the PM Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana for solar rooftops, seeks to reduce delays caused by tendering issues. The portal, still in preliminary stages, will allow direct submissions from farmers, bypassing state-level processes. The PM-KUSUM scheme’s components include 10,000 MW of solar units, 2 million standalone solar pumps, and solarizing 1.5 million pumps. This move aims to enhance solar energy adoption among farmers.
Vikram Solar Secures Major 397.7 MWp Module Supply Contract For NTPC’s Khavda Solar Project
Vikram Solar has obtained a significant 397.7 MWp module supply order from NTPC Renewable Energy Limited. The supplied modules will be instrumental in powering the extensive 1,255 MW Khavda Solar Project in Gujarat. These advanced bifacial DCR modules, with a minimum capacity of 540 Wp, adhere to the stringent ALMM standards. This partnership not only advances India’s solar energy goals but also highlights Vikram Solar’s strong commitment to sustainability through high-performance solutions. The project complies with the Domestic Content Requirement (DCR), reinforcing the company’s dedication to enhancing India’s domestic solar manufacturing capabilities.
