The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has expanded the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) by adding an additional 3,501 MW of solar module capacity. This brings the total cumulative manufacturing capacity of modules to 37,421 MW. Tata Power Solar contributes 2,525 MW to the recently added capacity, while Goldi Solar adds 976 MW.
The ALMM now includes eighty-one module manufacturers, although it still excludes foreign manufacturers. Notable changes have been made to the ALMM by introducing an additional module technology and establishing minimum efficiency standards, which are mandatory for modules used in government projects.
The reforms involve incorporating cadmium telluride thin film-based models alongside the existing crystalline-silicon models. The models must meet the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) norms and achieve specific minimum module efficiency standards. The minimum efficiency requirements for cadmium telluride thin film-based modules are as follows: Nineteen percent for category I, which includes grid-scale power projects; 18.5 percent for category II, covering rooftop and solar pumping; and eighteen percent for category III, focusing on solar lighting.
As of March 22, 2024, only solar module models with an efficiency of eighteen percent or higher have been considered for inclusion in ALMM list-1. Credence solar panels have been provisionally approved for bifacial mono c-Si PERC solar modules with capacities ranging from 530W to 670W. These 670W modules surpass the existing highest enlisted module capacity of 650W.
Provisional inclusion in the ALMM is granted within seven days of obtaining BIS certification. A two-month period is allocated for factory inspection and final inclusion. Failure to complete the factory inspection within this timeframe will result in the provisional inclusion becoming permanent. As reported by RenewableWatch, the implementation of the ALMM directive has been suspended for one fiscal year, specifically for fiscal year 2023-24. Projects completed by March 31, 2024, are exempt from the requirement to obtain solar modules from ALMM.
