The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has announced a simplified approval process for solar park development.
Previously, all Solar/Renewable Energy (RE) Park developers, including Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs), Joint Ventures of CPSUs (JVs of CPSUs), State Government PSUs, and private developers required approval from a State Government Committee for:
- Detailed Project Reports (DPRs)
- Solar Park infrastructure development charges
- Operations & Maintenance (O&M) charges
Changes for CPSUs and JVs of CPSUs
These entities are now exempt from State Government Committee approval for DPRs and charges.
They can submit DPRs directly to SECI (Solar Energy Corporation of India), IREDA (Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency), and MNRE.
However, they must obtain approval for charges (infrastructure development, O&M, land lease, and Return on Equity) from their respective boards.
Additionally, they need to demonstrate that these charges comply with MNRE’s guidelines issued on November 12th, 2021.
Changes for State Government PSUs
Their DPRs and related charges (infrastructure development, O&M, land lease) still require approval from the state’s Department of Power, Energy, or Renewable Energy.
The department must confirm that the charges adhere to the aforementioned MNRE guidelines.
Private Developers
The existing process remains unchanged for private developers. They require State Government Committee approval for DPRs and charges as per the November 12th, 2021 guidelines.
