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Delays in MNRE’s Handling of Duplicate Solar Module Serial Numbers

The solar industry has been facing months-long delays due to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s (MNRE) complex approach to handling duplicate module serial numbers. Instead of implementing a straightforward solution, the process has become bureaucratic, involving multiple agencies and unnecessary physical verifications.

A Simple Solution That Could Have Saved Time:

1. Match serial numbers with the DCR Certificate in the database.
2. If two projects claim the same serial number, approve the one with a valid DCR Certificate.
3. The other party is asked to submit their DCR Certificate for verification.

What’s Actually Happening?

• The DCR Portal is not being used for verification, leading to inefficiencies.
• MNRE, REC, and DISCOM officials are involved in a process that could be handled digitally.
• Site visits take 3-4 months, causing delays in project execution and subsidy disbursement.

Key Concerns That Need Answers:

• What happens to a project if its serial number is verified elsewhere?
• If a project has already received a subsidy using incorrect serial numbers, what action will MNRE take?

The industry is calling for digital verification instead of manual inspections to speed up approvals and avoid unnecessary delays. A more efficient approach would benefit vendors, consumers, and authorities while ensuring transparency in solar installations.