Draft Procedure for Approval of Change in Renewable Energy Source(s) for Projects with Granted Connectivity – EQ
Summary:
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### 1. Regulatory Intent & Business Objective
* CTUIL has introduced a formal mechanism to **allow renewable energy developers to change their declared energy source** (Solar, Wind, Hybrid, with/without ESS) **without altering the approved connectivity capacity**.
* The move provides **commercial flexibility** to developers responding to market conditions, PPA requirements, technology evolution, or policy changes, while protecting ISTS planning integrity.
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### 2. Scope of Permissible Changes
* Developers can **fully or partially modify** their approved renewable energy source composition.
* Allowed changes include:
* Solar ↔ Wind ↔ Hybrid conversion
* Addition or removal of **Energy Storage Systems (ESS)**
* Reallocation of MW capacity across sources within the same connectivity quantum.
* Applies to projects **already granted in-principle or final connectivity** but **not yet commissioned**.
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### 3. Key Commercial Conditions Developers Must Note
* **Only one source change allowed per connectivity grant**, making the decision strategic and irreversible.
* **No increase in connectivity capacity** is permitted under any circumstances.
* **No extension of connectivity start date or post-grant timelines** will be allowed due to source change.
* Projects already injecting power into the grid are **not eligible**.
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### 4. Time Window & Strategic Deadlines
* Applications must be filed:
* Within **18 months of in-principle connectivity**, or
* **18 months prior to the firm connectivity start date**, whichever is later.
* A **one-time relaxation** is provided as per CERC Order dated 08.12.2025.
* Missing the window could result in **loss of flexibility and stranded commercial opportunity**.
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### 5. Application Process & Platform
* Applications to be submitted via the **NSWS portal** using **FORMAT CONN-SC**.
* Until the portal is operational, applications may be submitted on **company letterhead**, with the submission date considered up to 24:00 hours.
* **No application fee**, reducing administrative and financial burden.
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### 6. Land & PPA-Linked Risk Considerations
* Source change will be **rejected** if the new source requires **more than 50% additional land** compared to documents already submitted.
* Exception allowed **only if mandated by a awarded LOA or signed PPA**.
* This clause directly impacts **project site strategy, land banking, and acquisition costs**.
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### 7. Grid Access & Priority Implications
* Solar-hour-only connectivity holders can change source **only if non-solar hour margins are still available** at the grid node.
* Priority between:
* Source-change applications, and
* Fresh non-solar connectivity applications
will be decided based on **timestamp order**, impacting competitive positioning.
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### 8. Post-Approval Compliance & Financial Risk
* After approval, developers must:
* Submit **updated technical connection data** at least **one year before SCOD**.
* Sign an **amended Connectivity Agreement within 30 days**.
* Failure to comply may lead to **revocation of connectivity**, directly affecting project bankability and lender confidence.
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### 9. Technical Rejection Risks
* CTUIL may reject applications if:
* Grid margins (solar/non-solar) at the sub-station or ISTS level are exceeded.
* System studies find the revised configuration **technically infeasible**.
* Rejection reasons must be formally recorded, ensuring transparency but adding **technical due-diligence responsibility** on developers.
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### 10. Documentation & Corporate Governance Requirements
* Mandatory submissions include:
* Board Resolution authorizing the change
* Updated project profile and source mix
* Revised land documents
* Updated financial closure and cost/MW
* Detailed technical parameters and simulation data
* Declaration of no increase in connectivity quantum
* Ensures **strong governance, lender alignment, and regulatory audit readiness**.
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