MNRE Approves ZAM Alloy For Rooftop Solar Structures Under PM Surya Ghar Scheme

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, has issued an official memorandum dated May 19, 2026, introducing an important amendment to the technical specifications for rooftop solar plants under the residential component of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSG: MBY). The revision focuses on the module mounting structures (MMS) used in rooftop solar installations and is expected to provide greater flexibility for manufacturers, vendors, and consumers participating in the national solar scheme.

Under the updated guidelines, Zinc Aluminium Magnesium (ZAM) Alloy has now been officially approved as a material for fabricating module mounting structures. Earlier, the approved materials for MMS included Hot Dip Galvanized Iron, Aluminium, and Hot Dip Galvanized Mild Steel (MS). Among these, Hot Dip Galvanized Mild Steel was considered the preferred option for raised structures.

The Ministry stated that the decision to include ZAM Alloy was taken after receiving multiple requests from industry stakeholders. The proposal was also technically evaluated with inputs from the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE). With this amendment, the total number of approved materials for module mounting structures has increased from three to four.

As per the revised specifications, any ZAM Alloy used in rooftop solar installations must comply with the latest IS 18513:2023 quality standards. The Ministry has clarified that all existing technical standards for other approved materials will continue without any changes. MMS Steel must still conform to the latest IS 2062:2011 standard, while galvanization requirements must follow the latest IS 4759 specifications. Aluminium components are also required to comply with the AA6063 T6 standard and must have proper anti-rusting protection through coating or anodization.

The memorandum further states that the amendment specifically revises sections 3.2 and 3.3 of Annexure 3 of the original technical guidelines issued under the PM Surya Ghar scheme. Apart from the inclusion of ZAM Alloy, all other terms, technical conditions, and requirements related to module mounting structures remain unchanged.

The latest amendment is expected to improve structural durability and expand material options for rooftop solar developers and residential consumers across India.