Govt Tightens Solar Quality Norms

04 Feb 2025 CW Team

The Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has introduced the Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods Order, 2025, replacing the 2017 framework. The revised regulations, effective 180 days from publication, set stricter quality and efficiency standards for solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, inverters, and storage batteries.

Manufacturers, importers, and distributors must now comply with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification. The new order mandates a minimum efficiency of 18% for Mono Crystalline Silicon and Thin-Film PV modules, and 17% for Poly Crystalline Silicon PV modules. Testing requirements have also been strengthened to align with global safety norms.

While licenses issued under the 2017 order remain valid, all renewals and new registrations will follow the QCO, 2025 framework. However, products meant exclusively for export are exempt. The move follows two years of consultations with manufacturers, testing agencies, and WTO members, ensuring compliance with international trade standards.

Real Estate

05 May 2026

Dubai Real Estate Sales Reach AED48 Billion

Dubai’s real estate market recorded 13,977 sales transactions worth AED48 billion in April 2026, reflecting continued resilience across residential and commercial segments.According to a market update by fäm Properties, sales volume rose 3.5 per cent month-on-month compared to March, while total sales value increased by 10.7 per cent. The commercial sector, including offices and shops, recorded the strongest growth, with 561 transactions valued at AED4 billion, up 33.9 per cent year-on-year and 36.2 per cent month-on-month.Apartment sales rose 6.5 per cent month-on-month to 11,377 transacti..

Casagrand Launches 35-Acre Hyderabad Project

Casagrand has launched Casagrand Vybe, its largest residential project in Hyderabad, spread across 35 acres in Rajendra Nagar. The launch marks the company’s fifth residential rollout in 2026 and strengthens its expansion momentum in the city.As part of its Hyderabad growth strategy, Casagrand is adding 3.98 million sq ft of residential space to its portfolio. Since entering the Hyderabad residential market in 2023, the company has scaled its presence with projects across key micro-markets. In 2025, it launched four projects — Casagrand Evon, Casagrand Windsor Court, Casagrand Belair and C..

Bentley Event Spotlights AI Infrastructure

Bentley Systems recently hosted Illuminate Mumbai 2026, bringing together infrastructure leaders, policymakers, technology experts and academia to discuss how AI-driven engineering and digital twins can accelerate India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.The event focused on scaling intelligent and connected infrastructure ecosystems beyond digital adoption. Discussions covered the use of infrastructure AI, open data environments and digital twin technologies to improve project delivery, sustainability and long-term asset performance across key sectors.Kamalakannan Thiruvadi, Regional Exec..