MNRE simplifies application process for Waste to Energy projects

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued an office memorandum to simplify the application and documentation process under its Waste to Energy Programme. Dated October 3, 2025, the move aims to speed up projects that generate power from urban, industrial, and agricultural waste.

The revised process reduces paperwork for developers at all key stages—initial application, 50% financial assistance claim, and final disbursement. At the application stage, developers must now submit only a Detailed Project Report, a loan sanction letter if applicable, and an undertaking on a non-judicial stamp paper.

The new guidelines also introduce standard formats for the DPR and undertaking. The DPR must cover project details such as feedstock availability, technology, layout, costs, and environmental impact, while the undertaking certifies that all equipment is new and not supported by any other government scheme.

For financial assistance claims, documentation has been streamlined. The inspection agency will now upload a combined Plant Inspection report that includes commissioning and performance data, pollution and safety clearances, and environmental approvals.

The memorandum also clarifies that joint inspections are not required for the initial 50% disbursement and defines the project’s commissioning date as the first day of Biogas, BioCNG, or Power generation.

The changes are expected to make approvals faster and improve project execution under the Waste to Energy Programme.