India's Solar Supply Chain: ALMM Framework Extended to Include Key Components

Government Expands ALMM Framework to Solar Ingots and Wafers, New Rules Effective June 2028​

MNRE Introduces ALMM List-III to Strengthen Domestic Solar Supply Chain​

New Delhi, March 18: The government has expanded the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) framework to include solar ingots and wafers, marking a significant step in strengthening India’s domestic solar manufacturing ecosystem. The new norms will come into effect from June 1, 2028.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has introduced ALMM List-III specifically for ingots and wafers. This move extends mandatory domestic sourcing requirements beyond solar modules and cells to upstream components within the solar value chain.

Grandfathering Provisions to Safeguard Ongoing Projects​

The ministry confirmed that grandfathering provisions have been incorporated to protect projects that are already under implementation. This ensures that existing developments are not disrupted by the updated regulatory framework.

Mandatory Use of ALMM-Listed Wafers Across Projects​

Under the revised framework, all solar projects, including those under net metering and open access, will be required to use wafers listed under ALMM from the effective date.

A cut-off timeline has also been defined. Bids submitted after seven days from the publication of the initial ALMM List-III for wafers under Section 63 of the Electricity Act, 2003 must explicitly specify the use of ALMM-compliant wafers.

Supply Assurance شرط Before ALMM List-III Rollout​

The government has outlined a capacity-linked condition before issuing the initial list. ALMM List-III will be released only after at least three independent manufacturers, with a combined operational capacity of 15 GW, are in place. This condition aims to ensure sufficient domestic supply availability.

Additionally, manufacturers seeking inclusion in ALMM List-III for wafers must also maintain equivalent ingot manufacturing capacity, reinforcing backward integration within the sector.

Integration with Existing ALMM Lists from 2028​

From June 2028 onwards, ALMM List-I, which covers solar modules, will include only those modules that are manufactured using ALMM-listed cells and wafers. Separate provisions will continue to apply for existing projects.

The ministry clarified that the latest order does not impact the current Domestic Content Requirement (DCR) provisions.

Push for Self-Reliance in Solar Manufacturing​

Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, stated that the expansion of the ALMM framework to include ingots and wafers represents a decisive move toward building a self-reliant solar ecosystem. He added that the initiative is expected to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities, reduce dependence on imports, and improve supply chain resilience.

Focus on Reducing Import Dependence in Critical Components​

Wafers are a crucial intermediate component in solar manufacturing, and India currently relies significantly on imports in this segment. The government expects that bringing wafers and ingots under the ALMM framework will support domestic production, enhance supply chain security, and contribute to employment generation in the renewable energy sector.