MNRE Issues Revised Standards For PM-KUSUM Scheme

MNRE Issues Revised Standards For PM-KUSUM Scheme

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) recently updated its standards and specifications for solar photovoltaic (SPV) systems under the PM-KUSUM scheme. The government proposed to update the standards and specifications to include new technology and improve eqiopment used in such projects. The government has sought recommendations from the stakeholders till October 31, 2024.

In its latest document, MNRE aimed to introduce performance, safety features, and testing requirements for Solar Photovoltaic Water Pumping Systems, specifically focusing on positive displacement technology. The document outlined the technical specifications, “The technical requirements for Solar Photovoltaic Water Pumping Systems includes the use of positive displacement technology for handling clear cold water, covering design qualifications and performance specifications. These pump sets can be installed on a suitable bore well.”

Provision For Use Of Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) Arrays

MNRE’s recent guideline has outlined provisions for using Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) Arrays, noting, “SPV arrays will contain a specified number of modules with the same capacity, type, and specifications, connected in series or parallel to achieve the required voltage or current output. The SPV water pumping system operated with a PV array capacity ranging from 900 Watts peak to 5500 Watts peak, measured under Standard Test Conditions (STC). Sufficient series and parallel modules can help to achieve the required voltage or current output. The power output of individual PV modules under STC is expected to contain a minimum of 300 Watts peak, with adequate provision for measurement tolerances. The use of PV modules with higher power output is preferred.”

Additionally, the government has clarified the performance specifications for solar PV water pumps equipped with PV panels. According to the document, “Solar PV water pumps with PV panel capacities ranging from 200 Wp to 500 Wp may be installed on suitable bore-wells, open wells, water reservoirs, water streams, etc.”

For supplying water to solar pumps, the government has set minimum water output requirements from a Solar PV Water Pumping System at different “Total Dynamic Heads.” For example, for a 0.25 hp motor pump set and 300 Wp solar panels, the government has established a condition of 7.15 kWh/sq.m. average daily solar radiation on the surface of the PV array (coplanar with the PV Modules).

PV Array Specifications

The SPV water pumping system should operate with a PV array capacity ranging from 200 Wp to 500 Wp, measured under Standard Test Conditions (STC). Sufficient modules in series and parallel should be used to achieve the required PV array power output. The power output of individual PV modules in the array should be a minimum of 75 Watts peak, with adequate provision for measurement tolerances. The use of PV modules with higher power output is preferred.

Indigenously produced PV modules containing mono- or multi-crystalline silicon solar cells should be used in the PV array for the SPV water pumping systems.

• Modules supplied with the SPV water pumping systems must be certified as per IEC 61215 specifications or equivalent National or International Standards.
• Modules must qualify under IEC 61730 Parts I and II for safety qualification testing.
• The efficiency of the PV modules should be at least 14%, and the fill factor should exceed 70%.

The minimum water output from a Solar PV Water Pumping System at different heads is as follows:

i. A minimum of 15,000 liters of water per day from a Total Dynamic Head of 10 meters, with the shut-off head being at least 12 meters.
ii. A minimum of 8,000 liters of water per day from a Total Dynamic Head of 20 meters, with the shut-off head being at least 30 meters.
iii. A minimum of 5,000 liters of water per day from a Total Dynamic Head of 30 meters, with the shut-off head being at least 45 meters.

For a 0.5 hp Motor Pump Set and 500 Wp Solar Panel: Under the same “Average Daily Solar Radiation” condition of 7.15 kWh/sq.m. on the surface of the PV array, the minimum water output at different “Total Dynamic Heads” should be:

i. A minimum of 35,000 liters of water per day from a Total Dynamic Head of 10 meters, with the shut-off head being at least 12 meters.
ii. A minimum of 20,000 liters of water per day from a Total Dynamic Head of 20 meters, with the shut-off head being at least 30 meters.
iii. A minimum of 15,000 liters of water per day from a Total Dynamic Head of 30 meters, with the shut-off head being at least 45 meters.

The actual duration of water pumping and the quantity of water pumped could vary depending on solar intensity, location, season, etc.