The Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has recently unveiled major reforms with the notification of the Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods Order, 2025. This new order replaces the previous Solar Photovoltaics, Systems, Devices, and Components Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2017, and marks a significant step forward for India's solar energy framework.
This revised order, which is set to take effect 180 days after its publication on January 27, 2025, is part of the government's commitment to reaching ambitious renewable energy targets. According to MNRE, the legislation ensures solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, storage batteries, and associated equipment meet modern standards set by Indian guidelines.
The updated Quality Control Order now mandates heightened efficiency criteria: solar PV modules must achieve at least 18 percent efficiency if they are made of Mono Crystalline Silicon or Thin-Film, and 17 percent for Poly Crystalline Silicon PV modules. By ensuring these standards are met, the government seeks to not only uphold quality but also promote advancements within the solar market.
All parties involved with solar energy installations—including manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, sellers, and lessors—are now under the mandate of complying with these new regulations. Exempt from these requirements are products produced solely for export, allowing for flexibility within international markets.
Market surveillance, to be overseen by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), will play a key role in ensuring adherence to these new guidelines. The commitment to rigorous monitoring aligns with long-term sustainability goals, fostering innovation and ensuring safety across solar technologies.
MNRE took considerable time to engage with diverse stakeholders, including manufacturers and testing labs, to shape this new directive. Drawing upon two years of consultations, the ministry even reached out to member countries of the World Trade Organization (WTO) before finalizing the order. This extensive collaboration demonstrates the government's approach to inclusivity and thoroughness within the renewable energy sector.
The government highlighted its commitment through the statement: "This initiative underscored MNRE’s commitment to ensuring the highest quality standards..." This assertion reflects the balancing act the ministry aims to achieve—promoting solar energy adoption without compromising on quality and safety.
Existing licenses granted under the former QCO will remain valid, but all new registrations and renewals will now be governed by the revised 2025 order. This transition is intended to maintain continuity for businesses as they align with the new compliance requirements.
With these enhancements, India's solar energy sector is poised to take significant strides forward. The government’s initiative is expected to solidify the foundation for high-quality solar products and sustainable energy practices amid rising global energy demands.
Emphasizing the way forward, the MNRE stated, "The revised order has been notified in the Gazette of India... and will come effective 180 days from the date of publication." This puts the focus on concrete actions aiming to bolster India’s position as a leader in the renewable energy arena, encouraging investments and innovations.