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The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued revised guidelines for the installation of prototype wind turbine models in India. These new guidelines, dated after several earlier versions issued in 2012 and 2016, aim to support testing and certification of new wind turbine models. The purpose is to promote innovation in wind technology while ensuring safety, reliability, and alignment with Indian grid standards.
The revised guidelines apply to all wind turbine manufacturers in India who intend to install prototype models and synchronize them with the grid. The installations will be limited and are strictly for type testing and certification by internationally accredited agencies. The entire process will be overseen and implemented by the National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE), located in Chennai.
To begin the process, manufacturers must submit detailed documentation to NIWE, including contracts signed with testing and certification bodies. Only two certification schemes are recognized under the guidelines: IECRE OD 501 and IS/IEC 61400-22:2010. A valid prototype certificate must be submitted for the specific location of installation. If location details are missing from the certificate, a separate letter from the certification body is required.
Each prototype certificate will be valid for up to three years. However, manufacturers can apply for an extension if they meet the conditions under clause 6.3 of IECRE OD 501. In such cases, manufacturers must also submit a list of changes made to the wind turbine model and obtain a revised recommendation letter from NIWE. The model name must remain the same, although variants or configuration changes can be included.
Only three units of each prototype model are allowed to be commissioned or synchronized with the grid. These turbines must be commissioned within 18 months from the date of NIWE’s recommendation letter, and the entire type testing and certification process must be completed within three years. In cases where a revised prototype certificate is submitted, the process must be completed within four years from the original recommendation date.
Regular maintenance of the prototype wind turbines is mandatory. A certificate from the type certification body confirming this is to be submitted annually. Failure to comply with maintenance requirements may lead to disconnection from the grid.
After commissioning, manufacturers must provide a grid synchronization report or commissioning certificate from the relevant State utility or State Nodal Agency to NIWE. Importantly, these prototype turbines cannot be sold until the model is included in the Revised List of Models and Manufacturers (RLMM). Mass production or wider installation will only be allowed once this inclusion is granted.
All parts and components used for prototype turbines must be new and unused. Second-hand equipment is strictly prohibited. However, modifications are allowed if they follow the process outlined in the guidelines. Manufacturers may avail of custom and excise duty exemptions for the imported or procured components, as per relevant government notifications.
Manufacturers are required to submit an affidavit and indemnity bond to both NIWE and the respective State agency, committing to all terms. If any of the conditions are violated, the prototype turbine may be forcibly disconnected and removed, at the manufacturer’s cost. These revised guidelines have been issued with the approval of the Secretary, MNRE.
