MNRE Clarifies ALMM List-II Applicability for Rooftop Solar Projects on Government Buildings

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued a clarification regarding the applicability of the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) List-II for solar PV cells on rooftop solar projects installed on government buildings. The Office Memorandum, dated July 6, 2026, aims to remove ambiguity surrounding the implementation of ALMM requirements for such projects.

The ministry recalled that its Office Memorandum dated December 9, 2024 introduced the framework for implementing ALMM List-II for solar PV cells. Under this framework, projects falling within the scope of ALMM are required to source solar PV modules from ALMM List-I and solar PV cells from ALMM List-II, subject to the prescribed conditions.

MNRE further noted that the implementation framework has undergone multiple revisions since its introduction. An amendment issued on July 28, 2025 modified key provisions of the original framework, while the first ALMM List-II for solar PV cells was published on July 31, 2025. This effectively shifted the cut-off date for the applicability of ALMM List-II requirements on projects awarded through bidding to August 31, 2025.

The ministry also referred to its clarification issued on August 12, 2025, which exempted certain government projects executed under Net Metering, Behind-the-Meter, and Open Access mechanisms from the mandatory use of ALMM-listed solar PV cells. Specifically, projects awarded through competitive bidding with the last date of bid submission on or before August 31, 2025, are required to comply only with ALMM List-I for solar PV modules and are exempt from sourcing cells from ALMM List-II.

Additionally, MNRE highlighted that its Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) issued on September 23, 2025, reaffirmed that projects awarded through bidding before the prescribed cut-off date would remain exempt from ALMM List-II requirements, while projects awarded after the cut-off would be required to use both ALMM-listed modules and ALMM-listed cells.

The latest clarification is intended to provide greater regulatory certainty for developers, EPC companies, government agencies, and other stakeholders implementing rooftop solar projects on government buildings, ensuring uniform interpretation of ALMM compliance requirements.