MNRE Amends ALMM Order for Solar PV Cells : Key Changes and Industry Impact

MNRE Announces Important Updates to ALMM Order for Solar PV Cells – What It Means for the Industry

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has introduced important changes to the Approved Models and Manufacturers of Solar Photovoltaic Modules (ALMM) Order, 2019. These updates are aimed at improving India’s solar manufacturing capabilities and ensuring better quality in solar projects. Starting from June 1, 2026, solar PV modules used in all projects will need to source their solar cells from the new ALMM List-II.

What’s New in the ALMM Order?

1. Introduction of ALMM List-II for Solar PV Cells

   The most significant change is the creation of ALMM List-II, which will include approved models and manufacturers of solar PV cells. This list will help ensure that only high-quality, reliable solar cells are used in India’s solar projects. From June 1, 2026,  all solar panel manufacturers must source their solar cells from this list, which will be mandatory for government-backed schemes, net-metering projects, and open-access renewable energy projects.

2. Impact on Existing and Future Projects

   • For Projects Bid Before June 2026:

     Projects that have already been bid out before this new update will not need to use solar cells from ALMM List-II, even if the project is completed after June 2026. They will still use solar modules from ALMM List-I, but they are exempt from the new cell requirement.

   • For Projects Bid After June 2026:

     All future projects will need to source solar modules from ALMM List-I and solar cells from ALMM List-II, regardless of when the project is commissioned. This ensures that all upcoming solar projects meet higher quality standards.

3. Changes for Solar Modules After 2026

   From June 2026, only solar modules that use solar cells from ALMM List-II will be allowed in ALMM List-I. A new category, ALMM List-I(a), will be introduced for modules that don’t use cells from List-II but are allowed for certain exempted projects.

4. Net-Metering and Open Access Projects

   These types of projects must use modules from ALMM List-I. If they are completed before June 2026, they won’t need to use cells from ALMM List-II. However, after this date, both the modules and cells must come from ALMM-approved lists.

5. Support for Thin-Film Solar Technology

   Thin-film solar modules, manufactured by integrated solar PV manufacturers listed in ALMM List-I, will be deemed compliant with the new requirement to use cells from ALMM List-II. This encourages innovation in solar technology while keeping up with industry standards.

Latest List of ALMM Solar Panels | MNRE Approved Solar Panels Manufacturer List

Why Are These Changes Important?

The updates aim to boost India’s solar manufacturing industry and reduce its reliance on imported solar products. By ensuring better quality and encouraging local production, these changes will help India strengthen its energy security and support the country’s clean energy goals. The MNRE’s new rules are also expected to create more job opportunities, encourage investment, and drive innovation in the solar sector.

These updates are in line with India’s ambitious target to reach 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 and to transition towards cleaner energy sources. By adopting higher standards for solar modules and cells, the country is positioning itself as a global leader in the solar industry.

Impact on Solar Panel Manufacturers in India

These updates are expected to stimulate innovation and manufacturing in India. As the demand for high-quality solar panels grows, solar panel manufacturing companies in India, like Bluebird Solar, will play a crucial role in meeting the country's renewable energy goals. This will also create more job opportunities and attract investment in the sector.

Bluebird Solar’s Commitment to the New Standards

At Bluebird Solar, we are committed to meeting the new ALMM guidelines and playing an active role in India’s renewable energy growth. As we move towards these changes, we look forward to collaborating with partners and developers to ensure that India’s solar projects continue to meet the highest quality standards.

The MNRE will soon release detailed guidelines to help manufacturers and developers comply with these new requirements. These updates are an important step in creating a strong, self-reliant solar manufacturing ecosystem in India.

Ready to Power Your Solar Projects with Reliable Solar Modules?

Partner with Bluebird Solar for top-quality, high-performance solar modules and exceptional support.

👉 Contact us today!

Let’s work together to make your solar projects a success with Bluebird Solar’s trusted solutions!