Indian Government to Introduce Approved List for Solar Cells to Boost Domestic Manufacturing

The Indian government is planning to introduce an Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) for solar cells, aimed at enhancing the country’s transition towards green energy. This initiative will mirror the existing module manufacturing scheme and is expected to take effect on April 1, 2026.

Since the introduction of the ALMM order (List I) in 2019 for solar modules, the government has mandated that solar PV modules must be sourced exclusively from models and manufacturers included in the list. This move has been pivotal in promoting the manufacturing and usage of domestically produced solar panels.

According to a memorandum from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, the forthcoming List II will identify and include models and manufacturers of solar PV cells. The delay in issuing List II has been attributed to the previously low installed capacity of solar PV cells in the country compared to demand. However, expectations indicate a substantial increase in installed capacity over the next two years, prompting the government to propose the issuance of List II by the effective date.

The draft amendment stipulates that solar PV modules currently listed in ALMM List I with an expiry date beyond March 31, 2026, will also need to utilize solar PV cells from List II from April 1, 2026, onwards. Modules that do not comply with this requirement will be at risk of delisting from ALMM List I.

Projects that submit bids prior to the release of this new order will be exempt from the mandatory use of solar PV cells from List II, as stated in the draft.

Vineet Mittal, President of the Sustainable Projects and Developers Association (SDPA), highlighted the positive implications of the ALMM mechanism for solar cells. He noted that it would significantly boost domestic manufacturing by ensuring that only approved, high-quality products are used in government-supported projects, ultimately reducing dependency on imports.

Yogesh Dua, co-founder of UTL Solar, welcomed the government’s efforts to make the solar industry more sustainable, emphasizing that this initiative aligns with the country’s vision of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy. Dua added that the move would not only contribute to long-term goals but also benefit consumers with more efficient solar projects.

This new initiative underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening the domestic solar manufacturing sector and advancing India’s renewable energy ambitions.