MNRE to Include Solar Cells in ALMM Framework by 2026

In a significant step towards strengthening India's solar manufacturing capabilities, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued a draft amendment to the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) Order. The amendment seeks to include solar cells in the ALMM framework, with the final list (List-II) expected to come into effect by April 2026.

Stakeholders Invited to Comment on Draft Amendment

The draft is currently open for public consultation, with stakeholders invited to submit their comments and suggestions by October 6, 2024. This move is part of the government’s broader strategy to bolster domestic solar manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports, aligning with its renewable energy targets.

ALMM Framework: Strengthening Quality Standards

The ALMM framework was introduced in 2019 to regulate the quality of solar modules in India, with the first list (List-I) specifying the approved models and manufacturers of solar modules. However, despite provisions for a second list for solar cells (List-II), it was never released due to India’s limited domestic cell manufacturing capacity at the time. Now, as the country ramps up solar cell production, MNRE is moving forward with plans to roll out List-II by 2026.

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April 2026 Deadline: Mandatory Use of Approved Solar Cells

Under the draft amendment, all solar projects falling under ALMM's jurisdiction will be required to use modules listed in ALMM List-I and solar cells from List-II starting from April 1, 2026. Projects with bid submission dates prior to the issuance of List-II will be exempt from these requirements. However, tenders issued after the amendment's enforcement must adhere to the new rules, ensuring that both modules and cells are sourced from ALMM-approved manufacturers.

Implications for Existing Projects and Solar Manufacturers

Solar modules currently listed under ALMM List-I must comply with the updated requirements by 2026, or risk being delisted. This change will significantly impact manufacturers and project developers who must ensure that their products meet the new standards to stay listed under ALMM.

MNRE has also expanded the ALMM, adding 4,089 MW of new solar module capacity, bringing the cumulative capacity under ALMM to 54,706 MW. Additionally, the ministry has revised inspection guidelines for provisional enlistment, streamlining the process for finalizing manufacturer listings.