The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) has announced the secretaries to the Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC) for the respective Renewable Energy Implementing Agencies (REIAs). This order was issued on January 12, 2024.
The MNRE had previously announced a revised Dispute Resolution Mechanism (DRM) for the resolution of unforeseen disputes arising in the implementation of contractual agreements related to renewable energy projects. An order to this effect was issued on 7th June, 2023.
This mechanism will be applicable to all renewable energy schemes, programs, and projects implemented by Renewable Energy Implementing Agencies (REIAs) such as SECI, NTPC, NHPC, SJVN, and other agencies designated by MNRE. Additionally, it will cover contractual agreements between REIAs and EPC contractors involved in the execution of renewable energy projects owned by the REIAs, provided the REIAs commit to abide by the decisions made through this mechanism.
The DRC will consider various types of cases, including appeals related to extension of time, unforeseen issues not covered by contractual agreements, and other disputes between REIAs and RE Power Developers/EPC Contractors. Each application made to the DRC must be accompanied by the applicable fees.
All cases referred to the DRC will be examined in a time-bound manner, and the committee will submit its recommendations to the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy within twenty-one days of the reference date. The recommendations, along with the Ministry’s observations, will be presented to the Honorable Minister of NRE for a final decision.
The MNRE has now notified 4 secretaries (DRC) to the following REIAs:
- Solar Energy Corporation of India Ltd. (SECI)
- NTPC Ltd.
- NHPC Ltd.
- SJVN Ltd.
