ALMM List-I and List-II Explained: The Made-in-India Rule for Solar Modules and Cells

What ALMM is and why it exists

The Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) is a register kept by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. Only the module models and manufacturers on it may be used in the projects the ALMM Order covers. MNRE issued the order in 2019 to make sure that solar plants built with public support or for public utilities use reliable equipment from verified factories, and to build up manufacturing in India.

Until 2026 the order had one list, List-I for solar PV modules. MNRE then amended the ALMM Order 2019 to add List-II for solar PV cells, with effect from 1 June 2026.

List-I and List-II side by side

In practice List-II means that a covered project needs modules whose cells were also made in an ALMM-listed Indian factory. A module assembled in India from imported cells stays on List-I but no longer satisfies a project that needs List-II cells.

Which projects must comply

The order applies to projects set out in it, chiefly:

• Government and government-assisted projects, including those under central schemes
• Projects selling power to the government or to DISCOMs, such as plants built under central or state tenders
• Projects under schemes that require it, such as PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar (which already insist on domestic-content modules)
• Net-metering and open-access projects, which MNRE has brought within the order's scope, subject to the exemptions below

The exemptions

• Projects whose bid submission deadline was on or before the date of the List-II amendment are excused from the cell requirement, though they still need List-I modules.
• Net-metering and open-access projects commissioned before 1 June 2026 were exempt from sourcing List-II cells.

What it means for price and supply

Indian cell capacity is growing quickly but is smaller than module capacity, so modules with domestic cells (often called DCR modules) carry a premium over modules with imported cells. Lead times can also be longer in peak months.

Plan for it: fix the module specification at the design stage, get written confirmation of the ALMM listing and cell source from the supplier, and lock delivery dates into the project schedule.

How to check compliance before you order

1. Find the listDownload the current List-I and List-II from MNRE's ALMM pages; the lists are updated regularly.
2. Match the modelCheck the exact module model number, wattage and factory address against List-I.
3. Trace the cellsAsk the module maker for the cell manufacturer and factory, and check it against List-II.
4. Keep the paper trailKeep invoices, the ALMM extract and the maker's declaration. DISCOMs, scheme portals and inspectors can ask for them.
5. Inspect on deliveryMatch nameplates and serial numbers on site with the documents before installation starts.

Arrays Ingenieria does not manufacture modules or inverters. On CAPEX projects we specify ALMM-listed or client-approved makes, and on installation contracts we check and record what arrives on site, so the documents are ready when the DISCOM or inspector asks.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

1. PIB: MNRE amends the ALMM Order 2019 (List-II for solar cells)
2. China Briefing: An investor's guide to solar manufacturing in India
3. Energetica India: Union Budget 2025-26 cuts duty on solar cells and modules to 20%

This guide explains public policy in plain language for planning purposes. Rules, rates and deadlines change: confirm the current position with the notifying authority, your DISCOM and your tax adviser before you commit. Last checked 11 Oct 2026.