MNRE Amends ALMM-Wind and ALMM-WTC SOP, Mandates India-Based Prototype Testing After 2 Years

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has amended its Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers for Wind (ALMM-Wind) and Wind Turbine Components (ALMM-WTC), introducing a key revision to performance evaluation and prototype testing rules.

The amendment relates to the SOP originally notified on 29 October 2025 and was released by the MNRE’s Wind Energy Division. In a notable shift, the Ministry has encouraged manufacturers to conduct prototype testing within India.

However, mandatory in-country prototype testing will kick in two years from the date of this amendment, and even then, it will be subject to a review, effectively extending the compliance window for turbine makers.

According to the amendment, Clause 8.1,  titled, 'Performance Efficiency and Safety Issues', has been reworded to make the requirements more precise. The clause now specifies that the committee must deliberate on turbine performance with clearer criteria, stating that turbines must have their power curve tested and certified by an accredited laboratory as per IEC 61400-12-1, and that supporting performance data must align with regulatory expectations and be validated under representative geographical conditions.

The Min'istry has also underlined its push for domestic validation by encouraging manufacturers to undertake prototype testing within India. All other provisions of the SOP remain unchanged.