India’s solar industry has grown rapidly, but quality and reliability remain major concerns. To address this, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) introduced the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM).
What is ALMM?
The Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) is an official list published by MNRE that specifies which solar PV modules and manufacturers are approved for use in government, subsidy-linked, and certain large-scale solar projects in India.
Why was ALMM Introduced?
Before ALMM, many low-quality, cheap imports entered the Indian solar market, causing:
• Poor performance and faster degradation of panels.
• Safety risks due to substandard materials.
• Losses for investors and project developers.
How Does ALMM Work?
• Manufacturers must apply for inclusion in the ALMM list.
• Their panels undergo testing and certification (as per BIS – Bureau of Indian Standards).
• Only models approved by MNRE are added to the list.
• Projects funded by government schemes or subsidies must use panels from the ALMM list.
Impact on the Indian Solar Industry:
For Developers & Installers:
• Mandatory use of ALMM-approved panels in the government. and subsidy projects.
• More confidence in long-term performance and warranties.
For Manufacturers:
• Boost for domestic module makers who meet the criteria.
• Stricter quality checks for entry → only serious players survive.
For Consumers:
• Better quality assurance and reliable system performance.
• Slightly higher upfront cost (as cheaper, non-approved imports are excluded).
Current Status of ALMM (2025):
• As of 2025, ALMM applies to government projects, rooftop subsidy programs, and utility-scale projects.
• Many leading Indian manufacturers like Adani, Vikram Solar, Waaree, RenewSys, and Tata Power Solar are already on the list.
• Imports from countries like China face restrictions unless approved under ALMM.
Benefits of ALMM:
• Ensures quality & safety of solar panels in India.
• Promotes domestic solar manufacturing.
• Builds consumer confidence in solar adoption.
Challenges of ALMM:
• Smaller installers complain of higher panel prices.
• Limited availability of approved modules may delay projects.
• Manufacturers face long approval timelines.
Conclusion:
The Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) is a crucial step to ensure that India’s solar growth is built on quality and reliability. While it brings short-term challenges like higher costs and limited supply, in the long run, ALMM strengthens India’s solar ecosystem by encouraging trustworthy manufacturers and protecting consumers.
