Author: PPD Team Date: 15/04/2025
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has released revised draft guidelines for the installation and certification of prototype wind turbines in India.
The new framework allows manufacturers up to three years to complete type testing and secure certification from internationally accredited agencies. The National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE), Chennai, will implement the framework.
Prototype turbines will be installed only for type testing. NIWE will issue a recommendation letter to initiate the process. All prototypes must be commissioned and grid-synchronised within 18 months of receiving this letter. The prototype certificate will remain valid during the three-year testing period.
If the manufacturer makes changes to the prototype, including new components, they must obtain a fresh recommendation letter. Testing must be completed within the validity of the updated certificate.
The guidelines also stress the importance of regular operation and maintenance. Certification agencies are required to issue annual reports confirming O&M compliance. Failure to submit this report could lead to disconnection from the grid.
Only new and unused components can be used in the prototype turbines. Second-hand components or machines are not permitted.
Manufacturers must submit commissioning and grid synchronisation reports to NIWE immediately after installation. Prototype turbines will remain the property of the manufacturer until the model is approved and listed in the Revised List of Models and Manufacturers.
The guidelines also move away from specifying turbine capacity. With larger turbines, such as 5.2 MW models, now available, MNRE proposes referencing the number of prototype units instead.
Access the draft guideline here.