MNRE Launches Online Portal for Traceability of DCR Compliant Solar PV Modules

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has unveiled an online portal for the traceability of DCR-compliant solar PV modules, enhancing transparency and accountability in the solar energy sector. 

In an official communication addressed to all ALMM-enlisted Solar PV Manufacturers, MNRE announced the launch of an online portal designed in collaboration with Solar PV Manufacturing associations. The primary objective of this portal is to ensure the traceability of domestically manufactured solar PV cells and modules, thereby facilitating the verification of Domestic Content Requirement (DCR) compliance.

Hosted on the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) website, the portal features a user-friendly interface equipped with tools for DCR verification. This verification process is facilitated through the entry of unique Serial Numbers affixed to solar PV modules. MNRE intends to utilise this portal extensively for verifying DCR compliance in projects falling under its schemes that mandate DCR adherence.

In line with the rollout of this portal, MNRE has issued a directive mandating all ALMM-enlisted solar PV manufacturers to register their manufacturing facilities on the portal. This registration requires manufacturers to input comprehensive data that may help identify compliance with DCR norms. The portal will serve as the exclusive platform for DCR verification moving forward.

The Ministry has underscored the critical importance of adherence to DCR guidelines, cautioning that any solar PV module claimed to be DCR compliant but failing verification through this portal may lead to stringent actions as outlined in MNRE's Office Memorandum No. 283/5/2018-GRID SOLAR dated October 16, 2023.

India looks to boost the domestic solar PV manufacturing sector to cut the reliance on imports for the fastest-growing renewable energy industry. This initiative marks a significant step towards promoting local manufacturing and ensuring the integrity of solar PV deployments across the country. MNRE aims to leverage technology to bolster confidence in domestically manufactured solar PV modules while advancing India's renewable energy goals.