The government has prolonged the exemption for net metering and open access renewable energy projects from mandatory sourcing of Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) List-II solar PV cells until December 31. This extension is specifically for a limited transition period. Projects commissioned after December 31, 2026, will need to adhere to the ALMM List-II provisions. The decision was made after consultations with stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition for affected projects.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) emphasized that the exemption does not apply to all solar projects and that the policy remains unchanged regarding ALMM List-II implementation. The move aims to support domestic solar manufacturing and encourage sourcing from ALMM List-II-listed manufacturers. This step is expected to boost demand and aid standalone solar PV module manufacturers.
Stressing the importance of strengthening domestic solar manufacturing, the ministry highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing India’s self-reliance in solar PV manufacturing. Manufacturers will have ample time to transition gradually to sourcing solar PV cells from ALMM List-II-listed manufacturers, as the domestic manufacturing capacity continues to grow. After December 31, 2026, all net metering and open access renewable energy projects must source solar PV modules from ALMM List-I and solar PV cells from ALMM List-II.
