India Tightens Wind Turbine Norms to Boost Domestic Manufacturing and Data Sovereignty

In a sweeping regulatory overhaul, India has introduced new norms for wind turbine manufacturers aimed at strengthening domestic supply chains, safeguarding operational data, and accelerating its clean energy ambitions.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has replaced the earlier RLMM framework with a more stringent Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM). Under the new rules, turbine makers must source critical components—such as blades, towers, gearboxes, generators, and special bearings—from Indian vendors listed in the ALMM.

Local Sourcing Mandate

• Manufacturers must source key components—blades, towers, generators, gearboxes, and special bearings—from Indian vendors listed in the newly created Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM).
• This replaces the earlier RLMM framework and strengthens quality control and energy security.

Data Localization & Cybersecurity

• All wind turbine data must be stored within India.
• Real-time operational data transfers abroad are prohibited.
• R&D centers, data centers, and servers must be located in India within one year.

Inspection & Compliance

• A technical team from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) will conduct inspections.
• A standard operating procedure (SOP) will be issued for compliance.

Innovation Exemptions

• New manufacturers and models are exempt from ALMM sourcing for up to 800 MW over two years, to encourage innovation and tech not yet available domestically.
• Certain bid-out and near-term projects are also exempt.

Strategic Implications

Impact Area	Details
Domestic Players Benefit	Suzlon Energy, Inox Wind, Adani Wind expected to gain market share
Foreign Firms Affected	China's Envision Group may lose ground due to sourcing restrictions
Manufacturing Capacity	India’s wind turbine industry has 20 GW annual capacity
Energy Goals	Supports India’s target of 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030