Govt announces List-II for for solar PV cells under ALMM framework

New Delhi: To boost domestic manufacturing of solar cells, the government has issued the ALMM (Approved List of Models and Manufacturers) list for solar PV cells, called List-II, on Tuesday and has said that the order will take effect from June 1, 2026. “Though the aforesaid ALMM order dated 02.01.2019 had provision for List-1, specifying models and manufacturers of Solar PV Modules and List-II, specifying models and manufacturers of Solar PV Cells, till date, List-II of solar PV cells has not been issued because the installed capacity of solar PV cells in the country was lower than demand,” said the MNRE in an order dated December 9.

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“With installed capacity of solar PV cells in the country expected to increase substantially in next year, it has been proposed to issue List-II of solar PV cells under ALMM, which shall be effective from 1st June, 2026,” it added. The ministry said that the amendment in the ALMM order will have far-reaching implications for India’s solar power sector and its clean energy transition, marking a major step towards boosting domestic manufacturing and fostering self-reliance in India’s renewable energy industry.

“From 1st June 2026, all solar PV modules used in projects – including government-backed schemes, net-metering projects, and open access renewable energy initiatives – will be required to source their solar cells from ALMM List-II, ensuring quality and reliability in solar PV cells used in India’s energy infrastructure,” said the ministry.

ALMM List-II: Exemptions for existing projects

For projects that have already been bid out but whose last date of bid submission is before the issuance of this order, an exemption will apply, allowing them to proceed without the requirement to use solar PV cells from List-II, even if their commissioning date is post June 1, 2026. However, for all future bids, the requirement to source both solar PV modules and cells from the respective ALMM lists will be mandatory, said the ministry.

“In the coming months, the MNRE will issue detailed procedural guidelines for the enlistment of solar PV cells under ALMM List-II, providing clear instructions for manufacturers and project developers on how to comply with the updated requirements. This 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,” said MNRE.

“This policy enhancement is expected to have profound economic and environmental benefits. By mandating the use of solar PV cells which will be included in the ALMM List-II following a rigorous procedure to verify the quality and reliability, the government aims to foster a robust domestic solar PV supply chain, reduce the carbon footprint associated with solar module imports, and bolster India’s energy security. This move aligns with India’s broader goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based power capacity by 2030 and making substantial strides in its commitment to clean energy,” said the ministry.

“The amendment will not only strengthen India’s position as a global leader in renewable energy but will also accelerate the growth of India’s solar manufacturing sector. The increased demand for solar PV cells in India is expected to stimulate innovation, create new job opportunities, and attract investments in high-tech manufacturing. It will also enhance the overall quality and reliability of solar products used in India, ensuring that projects meet the highest standards,” it added.

“The government has also recognized the role of thin-film solar technology in India’s renewable energy future. Under the new amendments, thin-film solar modules manufactured in integrated solar PV module manufacturing units will be considered in compliance with the requirement to use solar PV cells from List-II, further driving technological innovation and diversification within the sector,” said MNRE. “Procedural Guidelines for enlistment of Models and Manufacturers of Solar pv Cells under ALMM List-II (for Solar PV Cells) will be issued subsequently,” it added.

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