Ministry of Power Establishes Independent Group to Monitor Thermal Power Projects
This group will be responsible for conducting site inspections and providing assessments of thermal power projects currently under development in India. The TPMG is expected to ensure that thermal power projects are completed efficiently and according to established standards.
JSERC (Electricity Supply Code) (Second Amendment) Regulations, 2024
The JSERC (Electricity Supply Code) (Second Amendment) Regulations, 2024, introduce significant changes to the electricity supply process in Jharkhand. The amendments address connection charges, timeframes for providing new or modified connections, and the accessibility of bills. These changes are in line with the Ministry of Power’s notifications and demonstrate the Commission’s dedication to enhancing the efficiency and consumer experience of electricity supply in the state.
ALMM for Solar Panels to Resume Operations on April 1st
The MNRE has now announced the recommencement of the ALMM for solar photovoltaic modules. However, the memo clarifies that solar power developers who received solar PV modules at their project sites by March 31, 2024 and were unable to commission them due to reasons beyond their control will be examined on a case-by-case basis.
New Option for Electrifying Remote Tribal Villages under PM JANMAN
The inclusion of CAPEX mini-grids expands electrification options for PVTG villages. This amendment is expected to accelerate progress towards achieving the goal of PM JANMAN thus bringing the benefits of electricity to these underprivileged communities.
Government Tightens Regulations on Ash Utilization in Thermal Power Plants
Thermal Power Plants shall reserve a certain percentage of ash for supply to micro and small enterprises engaged in ash-based product manufacturing. These products include bricks, blocks, tiles, aggregates, cement sheets, pipes, and panels. They must be sold at concessional prices or through limited auctions as per guidelines issued by MoP.
Amendment to Approved Models and Manufacturers of Solar Photovoltaic Modules Order, 2019
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has modified reforms in the Approved Models and Manufacturers of Solar Photovoltaic Modules (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2019. MNRE has revised these thresholds, aligning them with BIS standards and specifying minimum module efficiency requirements for each category. This Office Memorandum was issued on March 22, 2024.
Updates in List of Approved Solar Photovoltaic Module Manufacturers and Models
Under the updated Approved List of Models and Manufactures for Solar Photovoltaic Modules, the enlistment of models of Solar PV Module Manufacturers in the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) will be subject to stringent criteria. Only models that comply with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and meet the minimum module efficiency requirements will be eligible for enlistment under ALMM.
New Circular Released on Insurance Products for Solar Power Plants
the Ministry has received an updated roster of insurers from IRDAI. Consequently, MNRE has issued an updated list of insurers offering insurance products against risks associated with solar power plants. This step aims to inform all stakeholders about the available insurance options for solar power plants, fostering better risk management in the sector.
Electricity Rules Amended to Address Renewable Energy Sources
These Amendment Rules have empowered the Central Government to establish distinct central pools for various categories of Renewable Energy Sources. These pools will operate for a duration of three years from the date specified in the order issued by the Central Government.
Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (Grid Interactive Rooftop Solar Photo Voltaic Systems) (1st amendment) Regulations, 2024
The notification serves to announce the amendments to the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (Grid Interactive Rooftop Solar Photo Voltaic Systems) Regulations, 2021. These amendments include the definition of “Settlement Period” and the extension of settlement periods for certain Rooftop Solar Photo Voltaic Systems.
