MHA bans new solar, wind projects within 1 km of India’s borders
Guidelines impose security clearance requirements for projects up to 50 km from borders, restricting foreign participation and staffing.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has banned new solar and wind energy projects within one kilometre of India’s international borders, citing national security concerns. The move introduces stringent security guidelines for projects located up to 50 kilometres from the borders, including the Line of Control (LoC) and Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Under the new rules, projects proposed within the 1–20 kilometre zone from the border require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Defence (MoD). Those located anywhere within the 50-kilometre radius must obtain security clearance from the MHA. Applications for approvals must be routed through the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), with the MHA aiming to decide on proposals within 60 days.
Foreign participation is heavily restricted. Companies from abroad must secure prior approval from the Central government and MHA clearance to acquire land for projects. Additionally, foreign engineers, staff, employees, and labourers from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and China require MHA permission to work on such projects. Project developers are also mandated to install comprehensive security infrastructure, including anti-drone systems, at their own expense.
The guidelines follow a surge in applications for renewable energy projects in border areas, prompting consultations with stakeholders to establish a uniform approval process. The MHA stated the measures were necessary to address potential security risks associated with such projects near sensitive zones.