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Pollution consent / SPCB intimation (CTE/CTO) — documents, timeline & process
R4 · Electrical safety (build stage) · ~45 days (indicative)
Pollution-board consents before construction and operation — but solar PV is White category and statutorily EXEMPT from both since Nov-2024; only a written intimation to the SPCB is needed.
Where needed: online CTE on OCMMS → scrutiny/inspection → CTE → construct → CTO. Solar PV: written intimation/self-declaration only.
Solar PV (ground-mounted)WindHybrid (solar + wind)Standalone BESS
Statutory basis & authority
| Statutory basis | Water Act 1974 s.25 / Air Act 1981 s.21; MoEFCC gazette G.S.R. 702(E)/703(E) dated 12-Nov-2024 (White exemption incl. solar PV), amended 28-Jul-2025 |
|---|---|
| Authority | State PCBs via OCMMS portals |
| Department | State Pollution Control Board |
| Indicative timeline | ~45 days (verify with the authority) |
| Fees | Capital-investment slabs per state (where consent applies) |
Documents required
- Written intimation to SPCB (solar PV, White category)
- Where consent needed: CTE application + project report + site details
When is this required?
- SPCB consent / intimation: Project type: Solar PV (ground-mounted) / Wind / Hybrid (solar + wind) / Standalone BESS
Solarian expert note
Consent IS still needed for BESS (practice varies ⚑), DG sets, O&M workshops and colony STPs. Some states issued their own adoption orders — confirm the state position.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pollution consent / SPCB intimation (CTE/CTO)?
Pollution-board consents before construction and operation — but solar PV is White category and statutorily EXEMPT from both since Nov-2024; only a written intimation to the SPCB is needed.
How long does Pollution consent / SPCB intimation (CTE/CTO) take?
Around 45 days as an indicative planning figure. Actual timelines vary by authority workload and application quality — verify with the concerned authority.
Which authority grants Pollution consent / SPCB intimation (CTE/CTO)?
State PCBs via OCMMS portals. Department: State Pollution Control Board.
What documents are required for Pollution consent / SPCB intimation (CTE/CTO)?
Written intimation to SPCB (solar PV, White category); Where consent needed: CTE application + project report + site details.
Is Pollution consent / SPCB intimation (CTE/CTO) always required?
Solar PV is exempt (White category) — written intimation still required; consent applies to BESS/DG/ancillary works Verify applicability with the concerned authority.
Related approvals in this phase
- Fire NOC (substations, control rooms, BESS)
- Structural stability certificate (rooftop)
- CEIG approvals — drawings, inspection & charging (3-touch)
See also: all approvals · glossary of terms · state roadmaps
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Indicative guidance from the RegNav knowledge base, expert-verified by Solarian. Not legal advice — always verify with the concerned authority.