ALMM List-III Strengthens India’s Solar Manufacturing Ecosystem

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has recently introduced ALMM List-III under the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) framework, focusing on ingots and wafers. This new list will come into effect from 1 June 2028, marking a significant step towards strengthening India’s domestic solar manufacturing value chain.

Overview of the ALMM Framework

The Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) framework is a quality assurance mechanism aimed at ensuring reliability and performance of solar equipment used in India. Introduced under the ALMM Order, 2019, it mandates that only approved models and manufacturers can supply solar components for government-backed projects. The nodal authority for implementation is the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

Tiered Structure of ALMM Lists

The ALMM framework follows a tiered structure. List-I includes approved models and manufacturers of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, while List-II covers solar PV cells. The newly introduced List-III expands this framework to include upstream components such as ingots and wafers. This integration ensures greater control over the entire solar supply chain, from raw materials to finished modules.

Eligibility and Compliance Requirements

Only those manufacturers and models listed under ALMM are eligible for deployment in government schemes, net-metering projects, and projects supplying electricity to the government. This ensures adherence to domestic quality standards and reduces dependence on imported solar components. The framework also supports domestic content requirements (DCR), reinforcing policies aimed at promoting indigenous manufacturing.

Important Facts for Exams

• ALMM was introduced under the ALMM Order, 2019 by MNRE.
• List-I covers solar PV modules, List-II covers solar cells, and List-III includes ingots and wafers.
• Only ALMM-approved models are eligible for government solar projects.
• The framework strengthens Domestic Content Requirement (DCR) policies.

Grandfathering and Implementation Timeline

To avoid disruption, the framework includes grandfathering provisions for projects already in the pipeline or with bids submitted before the specified cut-off date. Such projects are exempt from immediate compliance with new list requirements. With List-III set to be enforced from June 2028, stakeholders are provided a transition period to align with the updated regulatory framework while ensuring continuity in solar project execution.