Government Mandates Use of Major Wind Turbine Components from Approved List for Enhanced Energy Security

The government has mandated the use of key wind turbine components from the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers Wind, according to an official statement released on Thursday. This decision aims to ensure quality and reliability in wind turbines across the country, safeguarding consumer interests while enhancing energy security.

The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) had previously introduced a procedure for including wind turbine models in the Revised List of Models and Manufacturers of Wind Turbines (RLMM). This list has now been renamed as the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers Wind (ALMM Wind) through an amendment.

Mandatory Use of ALMM Components

It is now compulsory to use major components such as blades, towers, gearboxes, generators, and special bearings from the ALMM Wind list in manufacturing listed wind turbines. The ministry will issue a separate list for these components. This move is expected to enhance quality control mechanisms, including cybersecurity aspects, while promoting domestic manufacturing in the wind sector.

The amendment also requires that Wind Turbine R&D Centres, Data Centres, and/or Servers be located within India to bolster the cybersecurity ecosystem. However, this requirement does not apply to already bid wind projects or captive/open access/commercial and industrial/third-party sale projects scheduled for commissioning within 18 months from the amendment's issuance date.

Exemptions for New Technologies

New wind turbine manufacturers and models are exempt from using ALMM-listed components for a total capacity of 800 MW over two years. This exemption aims to encourage new technologies with innovative features and performance efficiencies not available domestically. Such measures are intended to foster advancements in technology while maintaining high standards in the industry.

This initiative is expected to strengthen existing quality control systems while supporting domestic manufacturing efforts. By ensuring that critical components meet approved standards, the government seeks to protect consumer interests and enhance energy security nationwide.

With inputs from PTI