On Tuesday, the Indian government announced the introduction of an Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) for solar cells, aimed at bolstering the country’s transition to green energy. This initiative aligns with India’s broader goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based power capacity by 2030.
Key Details of the ALMM
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) stated that the second list (List II) under the ALMM for solar photovoltaic (PV) cells will be effective from June 1, 2026. From this date, all solar PV modules used in government-backed projects, net-metering initiatives, and open-access renewable energy schemes will be mandated to source their solar cells from ALMM List II. This requirement ensures enhanced quality and reliability in the solar cells utilized in India’s energy infrastructure.
Implications for the Solar Power Sector
The MNRE highlighted that this amendment to the ALMM Order of 2019 will have significant implications for India’s solar power sector and its clean energy transition. An exemption will be made for projects that have either been awarded or completed the bidding process before the issuance of this order, allowing them to proceed without using solar PV cells from List II, even if their commissioning date is after June 1, 2026.
Focus on Quality Assurance
For all future bids, sourcing both solar PV modules and cells from the respective ALMM lists will be mandatory. This marks a decisive shift towards quality assurance and sustainability in India’s solar power sector. The government aims to foster a robust domestic solar PV supply chain, reduce the carbon footprint associated with solar module imports, and enhance India’s energy security.
Technological Innovation and Compliance
Under the new amendments, thin-film solar modules manufactured in integrated solar PV module manufacturing units will also comply with the requirement to use solar PV cells from List II. This approach promotes technological innovation and diversification within the sector.
In the coming months, the MNRE will issue detailed procedural guidelines for the enlistment of solar PV cells under ALMM List II. These guidelines will provide clear instructions for manufacturers and project developers on how to comply with the updated requirements.
Conclusion
This initiative is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to simplify the regulatory process and ensure that India remains at the forefront of global clean energy development. By mandating the use of domestic solar PV cells, India is taking significant strides toward achieving its clean energy commitments and enhancing its renewable energy infrastructure.
Sources
- Ministry of New and Renewable Energy – ALMM Announcement
- The Economic Times – India’s Solar Power Initiatives
- PV Tech – Approved List of Models and Manufacturers
