MNRE Earmarks ₹200 Crore For Perovskite Solar Pilot Projects Under New R&D Push

In a major push towards next-generation solar technologies and indigenous clean energy innovation, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has earmarked ₹200 crore for Perovskite PV Manufacturing Pilot Line and allied projects under its newly approved Renewable Energy Research and Technology Development (RE-RTD) Programme for the 2026-27 to 2030-31 period. The allocation forms part of the programme's total outlay of ₹436.93 crore approved for the 16th Finance Commission cycle. The approval marks one of the government's strongest policy signals yet towards advancing emerging solar technologies that could complement conventional silicon-based photovoltaic manufacturing in the coming years. Perovskite solar cells are increasingly gaining global attention due to their potential for higher efficiencies, lower manufacturing costs and flexible applications. The renewed RE-RTD programme aims to strengthen indigenous research, technology development, demonstration and commercialization across the renewable energy value chain. Besides supporting cutting-edge solar technologies, the programme seeks to accelerate innovation through stronger collaboration among academia, R&D institutions, startups and industry players. MNRE To Support Pilot Projects According to the programme framework, MNRE will support pilot projects, test laboratories, incubation centres and centres of excellence to foster innovation and domestic technology capabilities. The ministry plans to establish multiple renewable energy incubation centres and strengthen testing infrastructure over the five-year period. The programme's technology focus extends beyond solar manufacturing and includes offshore wind, energy storage systems, hydrogen, bioenergy, small hydro and emerging technologies such as geothermal energy and ocean energy. Cross-cutting themes including indigenous manufacturing, artificial intelligence, machine learning integration and grid integration will also receive support under the scheme. Period Calls To Be Made MNRE will invite project proposals through periodic calls for proposals, while also allowing institutions and researchers to submit independent applications. Proposals will undergo technical scrutiny and evaluation by expert committees before being considered for financial assistance. The ministry has also proposed a dedicated Project Management Unit (PMU) to monitor implementation, assess technology readiness levels and track project outcomes under the programme. The RE-RTD guidelines will remain effective until March 31, 2031, unless revised earlier, providing a long-term framework for accelerating India's renewable energy innovation ecosystem and supporting the country's ambitions to become a global clean energy manufacturing hub.