The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) issued key clarifications in an office memo on October 7 regarding its rules for the use of ALMM modules (Approved List of Module Manufacturers) across projects in India.
The Ministry clarified that projects that are open access and net-metering and have applied for approvals before 1st October 2022, will not fall under the jurisdiction of the Approved List of Manufacturers (ALMM).
The Ministry also indicated that the ALMM would not apply to behind-the-meter solar energy projects for captive consumption by a consumer, or group of consumers.
MNRE decided to enlist the eligible models and manufacturers of Solar PV Cells & Modules complying with BIS standards and published the same under ‘Approved List of Models and Manufacturers’ (ALMM). The ministry had given a mandate to solar module and cell manufacturers to register under ALMM. Only ALMM-registered manufacturers could supply modules and cells to government projects, mostly utility-scale projects as well as government rooftop solar projects.
Later the ALMM order was further amended to include net-metering and open-access projects and it was conveyed that the amendment shall be applicable on RE projects which apply for open access or net-metering facility from 1st April 2022.
Representations have been received in MNRE saying ALMM mandate could negatively impact projects under open access or net metering. Also the the procedures for grant of open access and net-metering vary across states. The Delhi High Court sought clarifications from MNRE regarding the provisions protecting C&I solar projects in construction.
Discover more from SolarQuarter
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
