DELAY IN IMPLEMENTATION OF SOLAR PROJECTS

DR. SHASHI THAROOR:

Will the Minister of NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY be pleased to state:

(a): whether several solar power projects are facing delay and inflated costs due to blocking of over 900 containers by the custom officials;

(b): if so, the details thereof; and

(c): the action taken by the Government to resolve the difficulties being faced in the shipment of solar panels?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR POWER AND NEW & RENEWABLE ENERGY (I/C) (SHRI R.K. SINGH)

(a), (b) & (c): The Central Board of Excise and Customs has informed that at some ports, consignments of solar panels equipped with elements were investigated as to ascertain whether these are classifiable under Customs Tariff Heading (CTH) 8501 which attracts Basic Customs Duty (BCD) at rate of 7.5 % or under CTH 8541 which attract BCD at zero rate.

All consignments of solar panels which are classifiable under CTH 8541 were allowed clearance without any delay.

The Consignments of solar panels classifiable under CTH 8501 were offered for release after furnishing Bank Guarantee towards the liability.

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