MHA Renewable Energy Rules; No New Solar, Wind Projects Within 1 Km of Borders

Renewable energy development near India's borders will now operate under a defined security framework issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The guidelines cover solar, wind and hybrid projects around the LoC, LAC and International Border. 

The move follows a rise in applications for projects in border regions that could have national security implications. The MHA said the framework was prepared with stakeholders while considering both security and ease of doing business. 

1 Km Zone Faces Complete Restriction 

No project activity will be permitted within 1 km of the LoC, LAC or International Border. 

The wider area up to 50 km has been classified as sensitive. Projects between 1 km and 50 km will require MHA security clearance, while those between 1 km and 20 km will additionally need an NOC from the Ministry of Defence. 

Foreign Workforce and Land Rules 

Engineers, employees and labour from land-border countries, particularly Pakistan, Bangladesh and China, cannot be engaged without Central Government permission. 

Applicants also cannot transfer project land to foreign companies without prior approval. Projects involving foreign investment require a separate application to DPIIT under the FDI policy. 

Projects already holding MHA clearance or a Defence Ministry NOC before the guidelines will not need to reapply. 

Security and Project Infrastructure 

Applications must go through the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), which will forward them with state land approval and project coordinates to MHA and the Defence Ministry. Final clearance will follow both decisions. 

Projects must install security systems such as anti-drone equipment, operated by CISF or state police, with costs borne by developers. Dedicated police posts, employee pre-verification and monitoring of foreign nationals will also apply. 

Roads, Accommodation and Height Limits 

Project roads should be wide enough for emergency use by security forces. Hotels and accommodation must remain at least 5 km from the border, while cafeterias must stay within plant premises. 

Civil infrastructure height is capped at 3 metres from 1-8 km, 5 metres from 8-20 km and 15 metres from 20-50 km. 

Read More: Indian Startup Funding Records $383.5 Million Across 27 Deals This Week! 

Conclusion 

The MHA framework establishes a security-controlled zone for renewable energy development near India's borders, combining a complete 1-km restriction with clearance requirements and operational safeguards across the wider sensitive area. 

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