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Rajasthan Introduces New SOP to Fast-Track Approvals for Captive Solar Projects

The Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation Ltd (RRECL) has released a revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) designed to accelerate approvals for captive solar plants and third-party power sale projects across the state. The updated framework brings single-window clearances, defined approval timelines, mandatory storage requirements for larger plants, and incentives for projects equipped with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

The SOP establishes fixed deadlines for issuing No Objection Certificates (NOCs), executing Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), and completing project commissioning. By clearly distinguishing captive, group-captive, and third-party models, the framework aims to improve coordination between developers, discoms, and entities such as RVPN.

For solar plants exceeding 5 MW capacity, BESS installation has been made compulsory. Projects will be required to integrate storage amounting to 5% of their capacity under standard conditions, while those generating beyond 100% of their contracted demand must add storage of up to 20%.

Units that incorporate BESS will benefit from exemptions on registration fees, transmission charges, and wheeling charges. A dedicated compliance committee will monitor adherence to the guidelines, with plant owners mandated to submit an annual compliance declaration by April 30 each year.

The SOP also reiterates key captive project conditions—developers must maintain at least 26% equity in the power-consuming entity and ensure that 51% of the energy generated is used for captive consumption. Projects that fail to meet these criteria may be reclassified as third-party sale units, which would attract higher cross-subsidy and surcharge obligations.

The new SOP is expected to enhance transparency, predictability, and efficiency in the development of captive solar projects in Rajasthan.