New Delhi: The government has expanded the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) framework to include solar ingots and wafers, in a move aimed at strengthening domestic manufacturing in the solar sector, Akashwani News reported.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has introduced ALMM List-III for ingots and wafers, which will come into effect from June 1, 2028. From this date, all solar projects, including those under net metering and open access, will be required to use wafers listed under the approved framework.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi described the decision as a major step towards building a stronger solar manufacturing ecosystem. He said the move would support domestic production, improve supply chain stability, reduce reliance on imports, and ensure better quality standards across the sector.
As per the new rules, bids submitted after a specified cut-off date under the Electricity Act must use wafers that comply with ALMM List-III. The government will release the initial list only after at least three manufacturers, with a combined production capacity of 15 gigawatts, become operational in the country.
To qualify, manufacturers will also need to have matching capacity for ingot production, encouraging integrated manufacturing within India.
The government has included provisions to protect projects that are already underway, ensuring they are not affected by the new rules. Existing domestic content requirements will continue as before.
The move supports India’s broader target of achieving 500 gigawatts of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 and strengthening self-reliance in clean energy.
