MNRE has proposed to establish a new list for ALMM exclusively for the off-grid solar segment
It will be anointed ALMM List-I (DRE) catering to modules produced for distributed renewable energy
It has also proposed to lower the minimum module efficiency threshold for such products to 18% for both c-Si and CdTe technologies
The Indian Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has proposed a new and separate Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) dedicated to the country’s growing distributed renewable energy (DRE) segment.
To be called ALMM List-I (DRE), it will constitute solar modules with less than 200 W capacity to be used strictly for off-grid projects and applications. These may include solar lamps, solar lights, solar streetlights, solar fans, etc., but not solar-powered agricultural pumps and solar PV rooftops, it specifies.
Solar modules for off-grid projects and applications will need to have a minimum module efficiency of 18% for both crystalline silicon (c-Si) and cadmium telluride (CdTe) thin-film solar PV modules to be enlisted in ALMM. Previously, the c-Si module efficiency threshold was 19%.
Under the ALMM categories, for solar PV modules to be used for utility/grid-scale power plants, the ministry specifies 20% minimum module efficiency for c-Si-based and 19% for CdTe-based products. For the rooftop solar and solar pumping categories, the minimum efficiency is 19.50% for c-Si and 18.50% for CdTe modules.
It has also proposed ‘Any other application’ category IV under the ALMM requiring 19% minimum module efficiency for c-Si and 18% for CdTe modules.
MNRE says it has proposed these thresholds in response to several representations regarding the same for off-grid projects.
It now seeks comments and suggestions for the draft amendment to the ALMM order latest by March 1, 2025.
India already has an ALMM List-I for solar modules and is also set to introduce List-II for solar cells from June 1, 2026 (see India To Impose ALMM For Solar Cells From June 1, 2026).