In a decisive move to strengthen domestic solar manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports, the Government of India has extended its Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) framework to include solar ingots and wafers. The new provision, announced by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), will come into effect from June 1, 2028.
The expansion introduces a new category—ALMM List-III—covering wafers and upstream components, marking a significant step in deepening domestic value addition across the solar supply chain. Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, described the move as a “decisive step” towards building a resilient and self-reliant solar manufacturing ecosystem.
Strengthening the Solar Value Chain
Until now, the ALMM framework primarily covered solar modules and cells. By extending it to ingots and wafers—critical intermediate components between polysilicon and solar cells—the government aims to address a key vulnerability in India’s solar sector, which remains heavily dependent on imports at this stage.
From June 2028, all solar projects, including those under net metering and open access, will be required to use wafers listed under ALMM List-III. Additionally, manufacturers seeking inclusion in the list must also possess equivalent domestic ingot manufacturing capacity, ensuring backward integration and strengthening the upstream segment.
To safeguard ongoing projects, the government has incorporated grandfathering provisions, ensuring that projects already in the pipeline are not adversely affected.
Key Safeguards and Provisions
The policy sets clear benchmarks to ensure both supply adequacy and quality control. The initial ALMM List-III will only be issued once at least three independent manufacturers collectively achieve a minimum production capacity of 15 GW. This condition is intended to prevent supply bottlenecks while encouraging competition.
Further, bids submitted after a specified cut-off date—set shortly after the publication of the initial list—must mandatorily comply with ALMM List-III requirements. The policy also ensures that solar modules listed under ALMM List-I will only include those manufactured using approved cells and wafers, maintaining integrity across the value chain.
Importantly, the new order does not alter or dilute existing Domestic Content Requirement (DCR) provisions under current MNRE schemes.
Boosting Investment, Jobs and Energy Security
The inclusion of wafers and ingots in the ALMM framework is expected to catalyse significant investment in upstream solar manufacturing. By promoting domestic production, the government aims to enhance supply chain resilience and reduce exposure to global disruptions.
The move is also likely to generate skilled employment opportunities and improve quality assurance through better traceability of solar components—from raw materials to finished modules.
Building on ALMM Success
The ALMM framework, introduced in 2019, has already played a pivotal role in expanding India’s solar manufacturing capacity. Solar module capacity under ALMM List-I has surged from 8.2 GW in 2021 to around 172 GW currently. Similarly, ALMM List-II for solar cells has reached 27 GW within just seven months of its introduction.
With the addition of List-III, the government is now targeting comprehensive coverage of the solar manufacturing value chain.
Towards a Self-Reliant Green Future
The policy aligns with India’s broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and its ambitious target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. By reinforcing domestic manufacturing capabilities, the government is positioning India as a potential global hub for solar equipment production.
As the world accelerates its transition to clean energy, India’s latest move signals a strategic shift—from being a major solar market to becoming a leading solar manufacturing powerhouse.
Source – PIB
Edited by Mantena Sasank
Last Updated on: Wednesday, March 18, 2026 11:40 am by Mantena Sasank | Published by: Mantena Sasank on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 11:40 am | News Categories: Mumbai