MNRE announces major reforms in the Approved List of Models and Manufactures for Solar Photovoltaic Modules

Source: The post is based on the article “MNRE announces major reforms in the Approved List of Models and Manufactures for Solar Photovoltaic Modules” published in PIB on 15th May 2023

What is the News?

The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) has come up with a number of reforms in its Approved List of Models and Manufactures(ALMM) for Solar Photovoltaic Modules. 

The reforms are primarily aimed at reducing the cost to solar PV manufacturers, the time between application to enlistment as well as compliance burden and increasing ease of doing business in the whole ALMM process.

What are Solar Photovoltaic(PV) Modules?

Solar PV modules are made by connecting together photovoltaic (PV) cells or solar cells. They are manufactured from semiconductor materials like crystalline silicon. 

Solar modules convert the light energy captured from the sun into electric energy. The electric energy produced is used for lighting residential and commercial establishments.

Why has the government issued an Approved List of Models and Manufactures(ALMM) for Solar Photovoltaic Modules?

Since solar PV power installations are set up for a period of 25 years and solar PV cells and modules used in plants require long-term warranty, it is desirable to ensure that such products are indeed made in units in which production has been claimed. 

It is possible that some units may claim production of solar cells & modules produced or made elsewhere.

The reliability of such producers is essential to protect consumer interests and ensure the larger energy security of the Country.

Accordingly, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) issued an Approved List of Models and Manufacturers(ALMM) of Solar Photovoltaic Modules Order in 2019.

The ALMM Order states that ALMM shall consist of LIST-I, specifying models and manufacturers of Solar PV Modules and LIST-II, specifying models and manufacturers of Solar PV Cells. 

Only the models and manufacturers included in ALMM List-I (of solar PV modules) are eligible for use in Government Projects/ Government assisted Projects/ Projects under Government Schemes & Programmes.

As of date, ALMM List consists of 91 no of module manufacturing facilities (all domestic) with the aggregate solar PV module manufacturing capacity of 22,389 MW per year.