MNRE details solar PV R&D and tribal electrification progress

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), an India-based government authority, has reported advances in solar PV research and off-grid electrification initiatives. MNRE-supported research at IIT Bombay has achieved a 26% efficient perovskite solar cell and a 30.2% efficient four-terminal perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell. CSIR–National Physical Laboratory has established India’s first National Primary Standard Facility for Solar Cell Calibration with a reported uncertainty of 0.35%. MNRE has also implemented the New Solar Power Scheme under Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan and Dharti Aabha Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan. These schemes have targeted tribal and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group habitations where grid electrification is not feasible. Off-grid systems deployed include Solar Home Lighting Systems and Solar Mini Grids. During the reported period, 4919 households have been electrified through these initiatives.