MNRE Proposes Separate ALMM For Off-Grid Solar Solutions

MNRE Proposes Separate ALMM For Off-Grid Solar Solutions

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has proposed a new Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) specifically for off-grid solar solutions. As part of this initiative, the ministry plans to lower the threshold efficiency limits for solar modules under ALMM for these applications. It has invited stakeholders to submit their suggestions by March 1, 2025.

In a recent notification, the ministry sought comments from stakeholders on the draft proposal. The notification outlines MNRE’s intent to lower the solar module efficiency requirements for off-grid solar projects such as solar lamps, solar lights, solar street lights, and solar fans, excluding solar-powered agricultural pumps and rooftop solar. The decision follows multiple requests from industry stakeholders advocating for this revision.

Separate Efficiencies For Si & Cd Modules 

According to the latest MNRE notification, the minimum efficiency requirement for solar lights using crystalline silicon modules has been revised from 19% to 18%. Meanwhile, for Cadmium Telluride thin-film solar modules, the threshold efficiency remains at 18%.

Under the draft proposal, MNRE has set the minimum efficiency for solar modules at 18% for off-grid applications requiring individual module capacities of less than 200 watts peak. These applications, which include solar lamps, solar lights, solar street lights, and solar fans (excluding solar-powered agricultural pumps and rooftop solar), will be classified under Category III of ALMM. The new category will be called as ALMM (DRE).

Separate Category

Additionally, MNRE has introduced Category-IV under ALMM, covering all other off-grid applications. For Category-IV, the proposed efficiency standards are 19% for silicon-based modules and 18% for cadmium-based thin-film modules.

The ALMM framework was introduced to support domestic solar module manufacturers by ensuring that only enlisted companies’ products are used in government and government-sponsored projects. This initiative has played a key role in strengthening India’s solar manufacturing sector, providing local manufacturers with an advantage over foreign solar module imports.

There is a good chance that any relaxation in norms for DRE is meant to support some of the few remaining polycrystalline module manufacturers, besides other manufacturers with low capacities who are struggling to find takers for their output now. Importantly, it shuts off one of the few remaining avenues for use of imported modules as well.