Government mandates import registration for renewable energy equipment

The government has introduced a mandatory registration system for imports of selected components used in renewable energy projects. The framework aims to improve supply chain oversight, reduce delays, and provide authorities with clearer data on the availability of critical equipment. It also ensures that imported products meet technical and safety standards.

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, established the Renewable Energy Equipment Import Monitoring System (REEIMS), managed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), to monitor the end-use of key components in the sector.

Under REEIMS, certain items for solar projects, including toughened safety glass (HS 70071900) and specific photovoltaic cells (HS 85414200, 85414300), require registration. Wind energy components, such as towers, bearings, gears, generators, and other designated parts, are also covered. 

The registration process is structured for efficiency. Importers must apply at least two days before air shipments and five days before sea or land shipments. Each registration is valid for three months, free of charge, and can cover multiple consignments via a single port of entry. Importers must also declare the intended end-use of the imported items through the REEIMS portal.

This measure changes the import policy status of items under Chapters 70, 73, 84, and 85 of the ITC (HS) 2022 to ‘Subject to Policy’. The system is expected to enhance transparency, strengthen quality assurance, and support India’s renewable energy expansion.