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.
Ministry of Coal Advocates Clean Coal Technologies to Drive Sustainable Energy Transition
To spearhead the transition towards cleaner coal technologies, the Government has launched several initiatives, notably the Coal Gasification Mission. To facilitate these initiatives, a financial assistance scheme has been proposed to promote Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects by Government PSUs and the Private Sector, with an allocation of ₹8500 crores earmarked for incentives. This scheme seeks to demonstrate the viability of gasification projects, accelerate downstream product markets, and create additional value chains in the economy.
MoP Advises GENCOs On Timely Import Of Coal For Maximizing Production In Coal Mines
The Ministry of Power (MoP) has extended its prior advisory on blending of imported coal at 6% by weight from March 2024 to June 2024. GENCOs must ensure that their imported coal contracts continue coal supplies till June 2024. They are also encouraged to continuously monitor their coal stock positions and opt for blending in accordance with their requirements.
Government Recognition: Mineral Oil Industry as a Public Utility Service
The Central Government, in line with the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, has recognized the vital role of the mineral oil industry as a public utility service.
Guidelines for Promoting Community Boiler for Cluster of Small-Scale Industries
Recognizing this challenge, a novel concept has emerged – the ‘common boiler’ or ‘community boiler.’ This innovative approach involves the establishment of a centralized system of boilers within an industrial area to generate steam. The steam is then distributed through a pipeline network to member industrial units, thereby reducing the need for individual small-scale boilers.
Petroleum (Amendment) Rules, 2024
The rules address importation by air, emphasizing compliance with international aviation regulations and customs procedures. Importers must obtain proper authorization, submit requisite documents, and adhere to safety protocols outlined by the Director General of Civil Aviation.
Government Amends Electricity Rules to Optimize Power Supply
To optimize power usage, power generators withholding surplus power will now forfeit the capacity or fixed charges corresponding to that surplus quantity. Additionally, the surplus power cannot be sold in the power exchange at a price exceeding 120% of the energy charge plus applicable transmission charges. This move aims to increase the utilization of surplus electricity by making it more likely to be purchased and utilized.
AERB Revises Safety Guide on ‘In-Service Inspection of Nuclear Power Plants’
The document outlines the various stresses and environmental factors that impact the structure, systems, and components (SSCs) of Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) and the importance of inspecting these to ensure their integrity and safety during operation. The scope of the safety guide applies to land-based NPPs of Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) and Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) types, outlining provisions for safety-related systems and pressure-retaining components.
MNRE Releases Draft Specifications for Solar Cold Storage
Emphasizing the preservation of perishable produce, the specifications target storage temperatures between 4°C to 15°C, catering to a wide range of commodities including fruits and vegetables. Stringent quality standards are upheld, mandating certification of all individual components as per relevant industry norms.
