Why in news?
India’s Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has expanded its Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) framework to include solar ingots and wafers under a new List III from 1 June 2028. This move aims to strengthen the domestic solar manufacturing ecosystem and ensure quality across the entire value chain.
Background
The ALMM order, issued in January 2019, was created to verify that solar photovoltaic (PV) modules and cells used in government‑supported projects are genuinely produced by the manufacturers claiming to make them. Solar plants are designed to operate for decades, so reliability is critical. The framework lists approved models and manufacturers, ensuring that only vetted products may be installed in government projects, open‑access and net‑metering installations. The first list of PV modules was released in March 2021, and a separate list of PV cells was introduced in July 2025.
Key features
- Three‑tier structure: The ALMM now has List I for approved PV modules, List II for approved PV cells and List III for approved ingots and wafers. List III will apply from June 2028 once at least three domestic manufacturers with a combined capacity of 15 gigawatts are operational.
- Mandatory use in government projects: Only models and manufacturers listed under ALMM may be used in government or government‑assisted projects, net‑metering installations and projects selling electricity to government utilities. This ensures quality and reduces the risk of counterfeit or sub‑standard products.
- Grandfathering: Projects for which bids have been submitted before a specified cut‑off date are exempt from new ALMM requirements. This provision prevents disruption to ongoing projects.
- Domestic content reinforcement: The order complements existing domestic content requirements under renewable‑energy schemes by encouraging local production of cells, modules, ingots and wafers.
- Supply chain resilience: The expansion to ingots and wafers reduces dependence on imports for upstream solar components, promoting self‑reliance and strengthening the solar manufacturing ecosystem.
Significance
- Quality assurance: By listing approved models and manufacturers, the ALMM framework protects consumers and investors from sub‑standard solar equipment.
- Boosting domestic industry: Requiring ALMM‑listed components in government projects incentivises companies to set up manufacturing facilities in India, supporting jobs and technology development.
- Alignment with climate goals: The policy is part of India’s strategy to achieve 500 gigawatts of non‑fossil energy capacity by 2030 and underscores the country’s commitment to self‑reliance in clean‑energy technologies.
Conclusion
The expansion of the ALMM framework to include ingots and wafers marks a new chapter in India’s solar journey. By ensuring traceability and quality from the earliest stages of production, the policy will help build a robust domestic solar industry while safeguarding investors and consumers.
Sources: News on Air
