Wind Industry Surprised by MNRE’s RLMM Exemption

The Indian wind industry finds itself in a state of bewilderment following a recent order from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), issued on Monday.

The directive, granting exemption to wind turbines installed within special economic zones (SEZs) and export-oriented units (EOUs) from the approval process under the ‘Revised List of Models and Manufacturers’ (RLMM), has stirred a significant debate within the sector. The RLMM framework, renowned for its stringent approval procedures for wind turbines intended for deployment in India, has long been regarded as a crucial quality assurance mechanism. Under this system, both domestic and foreign wind turbine manufacturers are required to obtain approval before their products can enter the market. The MNRE’s office memorandum, dated May 27, stipulates that renewable energy plants situated within SEZs or EOUs, exclusively catering to the production of green hydrogen, will be exempt from RLMM oversight. This exemption applies to all wind turbines scheduled for installation before December 31, 2030.

Critics within the industry have raised concerns regarding the potential implications of this exemption. Some industry veterans have expressed apprehension that the order may appear to favour certain industrial conglomerates with vested interests in SEZs, green hydrogen, and renewable energy. Of particular note is the reference to a conglomerate intending to procure 3.2 MW turbines from Windey Energy Technology of China, raising eyebrows about potential conflicts of interest.

Moreover, industry insiders have cautioned against the adverse consequences of bypassing RLMM certification, citing potential risks to machine quality and safety. They emphasise that adhering to rigorous certification processes is essential to uphold industry standards and ensure the safety and reliability of wind turbines deployed across the country. As stakeholders grapple with the implications of MNRE’s exemption, discussions regarding the balance between regulatory flexibility and industry standards are likely to intensify in the coming days.