MNRE Releases Application Guidelines For ALMM Inclusion Of Solar PV Cell Models

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued a standard application format for manufacturers seeking inclusion of their Solar Photovoltaic (PV) cell models in List-II of the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM). The form is designed to ensure transparency and quality assurance in the enlistment process for solar PV cell models in India. Each application must be submitted separately for every PV cell type and filled in detail, providing key information regarding the manufacturer, cell specifications, and production capabilities.

The form begins with collecting the manufacturer’s company details, including the registered and communication addresses, the location of the manufacturing plant with geographical coordinates, and whether the application is being made for more than one type of solar cell. It also asks for details of the authorized signatory supported by a board resolution or authorization letter.

Manufacturers must specify the type of solar cell they are applying for, such as monocrystalline or multi-crystalline, and the technology used, like Al-BSF, PERC, Topcon, or HJT. The application requires data on mean wattage and efficiency with minimum and maximum ranges. Detailed electrical parameters at Standard Test Conditions (STC), such as Pmax, Vmp, Imp, Voc, and Isc, are needed, along with information on Potential Induced Degradation (PID) resistance.

Further, the manufacturer must submit mechanical construction details of the solar cell, including dimensions, thickness, bus bar configuration, and source of wafers. Only raw wafers without pre-formed p-n junctions are allowed. Calibration certificates for reference solar cells and performance curves also need to be submitted. These must comply with IEC 60904 and can be obtained from labs like Fraunhofer, NREL, NPL, or NISE.

The application also demands information on any collaboration or design ownership, including details of collaborators, their country, the collaboration period, and jurisdiction in India. If the design rights are partially held, this must be declared accordingly.

A significant portion of the form covers the manufacturing facility’s physical and financial details. Applicants must provide data on their manufacturing capacity, ISO certifications, equipment lists, production and sales history, purchase of raw materials, profit and loss accounts, asset and liability statements, and balance sheets for the last three years or since the unit’s existence.

Payment details for the application and inspection fees are required, along with acknowledgments. Additionally, an affidavit and indemnity bond must be notarized and submitted, confirming the correctness of the submitted data and assuming full responsibility in case of discrepancies or disputes. The manufacturer agrees to indemnify MNRE against any issues related to performance, documentation, legal disputes, or third-party claims.

The document also includes a checklist to ensure all necessary attachments are submitted, such as calibration certificates, ISO documents, raw material details, sales records, and proof of payment. Clarifications provided by MNRE address common industry queries, stating that minor changes in cell dimensions or efficiency will not require fresh inspections, and PID and non-PID cells must be listed separately. The process prioritizes data-driven evaluation, including weighted average efficiency, to reflect real manufacturing capabilities and streamline the certification system.