The government has issued guidelines for installing solar panels over the canopy and sales room of LNG/CNG/CBG Retail Outlets, Petroleum Service Stations, and ALDS. These guidelines follow stakeholder feedback and ensure safety and compliance. 

Key Guidelines: 

1. Safety & Structural Requirements: 

• • Installation must not obstruct ventilation or equipment access. 

• • Canopy height must allow a 300mm clearance as per vehicle height regulations. 

• • Wind & seismic load considerations must follow IS: 875 & IS: 1893. 

• • Structures must be earthed as per IS: 3043.

     

2. Power System Regulations: 

1. • On-grid systems require State Electricity Board approval and a safety certificate from the installer. 

• • Off-grid systems must avoid sub-stations, transformers, or lightning arrestors. Batteries must be stored in non-hazardous areas.

     

3. Hazard Prevention Measures: 

1. • Solar systems must be installed in non-hazardous areas. 

• • Petroleum storage tank vents must be at least 4 meters away from solar panels. 

• • All components (cables, inverters, junction boxes, etc.) must meet BIS or international standards.
     

4. Certification & Compliance: 

1. • Structures must be certified by a Third-Party Inspection Agency accredited by NABCB for stability. 

• • A structural stability certificate must be submitted for licensing. 

• • Earthing & wiring must be underground or enclosed, with protective devices (surge protectors, isolators, breakers, etc.). 

• • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for maintenance, safety, and troubleshooting must be followed.

     

5. Regulatory Compliance: 

1. • Installations must adhere to Gas Cylinder Rules, 2016, Petroleum Rules, 2002, and SMPV (U) Rules, 2016.

      

These guidelines ensure safe and efficient solar power integration at fuel stations while maintaining compliance with existing safety regulations.