The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), through its Wind Energy Division, has issued new guidelines for wind energy projects proposed near defence installations. The Office Memorandum, dated October 1, 2026, seeks to streamline the approval process, reduce delays, and ensure that developers comply with the requirements of the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

According to MNRE, applications submitted by wind energy developers frequently lack essential maps, data, and supporting documents in the prescribed formats. The ministry stated that incomplete submissions create bottlenecks in processing and delay the assessment of projects located near defence facilities.

Under the revised procedure, developers are required to submit one soft copy of the complete application along with a standardized Excel sheet at the time of initial submission. In addition, three physical sets of maps must be provided for every defence aerodrome located in the vicinity of the proposed project.

For projects located near multiple defence establishments, the requirement will apply separately to each facility. For example, if a proposed wind project is located near two defence facilities, such as an Army installation and an Air Force installation, the developer will be required to submit six physical sets of maps.

MNRE has also established a strict timeline for submission of the physical documents. All hard copies of maps, Excel files, and other supporting documents must reach the ministry within seven days of the initial application. Applications that fail to meet this deadline may be rejected or returned without further processing.

The ministry has further emphasized that wind energy projects near defence zones must comply with all applicable MoD guidelines and restrictions. Developers are required to ensure that project details, including geographical coordinates, overall layout, turbine height, ground infrastructure, and associated facilities, meet the prescribed defence-related requirements.

Following the grant of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or approval by the competent defence authority, developers must submit a copy of the authorization to the concerned State Nodal Agency (SNA) and State Transmission Utility (STU).

MNRE has clarified that compliance with the conditions attached to the defence clearance will remain mandatory throughout the project. Any violation of the conditions, restrictions, or operational requirements specified in the applicable guidelines or NOC could result in the clearance being revoked or becoming null and void.

The memorandum, signed by Scientist ‘D’ Vikram Dhaka with the approval of the competent authority, has been circulated among wind power developers, MNRE officials, Ministry of Defence representatives, and senior officials of the Wind Energy Division for immediate compliance.