One of the most challenging aspects of the solar plant development process is achieving all required center and local (state) approvals and permits and clearance. At the state level, a significant amount of time is spent either progressing a project through existing approvals, or in some cases, working closely with the local government to develop and implement new ordinances to address solar projects. Additionally, most states require projects to complete state-level approval.
The permitting process for rooftop solar power plants depends on the state in which it is installed, the size of the power plant and the sector your building belongs to (residential, commercial or industrial).
Usually the permits required are two-fold:
- Electrical Permits: Usually the electrical permits for rooftop solar power plants involve three stages: feasibility analysis, registration and connectivity. The consumer will have to submit an application to the power distribution company (discom) along with an application fee. This stage will also include the permits required for setting up the Net Metering facility, provided you are eligible for it. Post the registration process, the connection agreement will be signed between the customer and the discom. Post the installation of the solar power plant, the discom officials will test and evaluate the standard compliance of the rooftop plant before sanctioning the project.
- Building Permits: In states where building permits are needed, the inspector will visit the site, review the plans and issue the building permit on-site. This is usually not applicable for residential customers.
Similar to the case of rooftop solar power plants, the permitting process for ground-mounted solar projects too depends on the state in which it is installed.
In addition to the general registration processes common to all types of solar power plants, the following additional types of approvals are usually needed for ground mounted solar power plants:
- Power evacuation permission letter from the discom.
- Land conversion certificate.
- Contract labour license from labour department.
- Approval for sewage treatment plants.
- Environmental clearance from pollution control board.
- Fire safety certificate from fire department.
- Clearance from forest department.
- Approval from Chief Electrical Inspector for commissioning of the project.
- Approval from MNRE for tax exemptions for the power project.
IPTPL prides itself on quality solar project development while being a good facilitator, which requires working closely with local stakeholders to ensure their concerns are addressed. More and more, the success of a solar project hinges on a developers’ ability to navigate all permits and clearances which requires a strong relationship with local government, as well as community business interests and residents.