The Indian government is preparing to issue an Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) for photovoltaic (PV) cells to accelerate the nation’s green energy transition and encourage local manufacturing within the solar sector. This initiative is in line with India’s ambitious renewable energy goals and the push for energy independence. The ALMM, which already covers solar modules, is set to expand to include PV cells, promoting higher standards for domestic production and enabling manufacturers to meet both domestic and export demands.

With India’s solar sector projected to require significant PV cell capacity, the ALMM introduction aims to boost the local PV cell industry, reducing reliance on imports while helping achieve energy goals. The ALMM policy will mandate that only approved manufacturers meeting government-specified quality standards can supply PV cells for government-supported projects, effectively enhancing product quality and supporting market growth for domestic solar cell manufacturers.

By adopting ALMM for PV cells, the government expects to catalyze investments in solar manufacturing facilities and encourage technological advancements in the sector. Manufacturers are anticipated to benefit from both increased demand and regulatory certainty, fostering a strong market for domestically produced solar cells. Officials expect that this policy, alongside existing production-linked incentives and tariff barriers on imports, will encourage the scaling up of solar cell production to meet India’s green energy targets, aiming for a self-reliant green economy.

However, industry stakeholders have raised questions about cost and timeline pressures on existing manufacturers, highlighting the need for clear implementation guidelines to manage the transition smoothly. The ALMM policy for PV cells is part of a larger governmental framework supporting the growth of renewable energy and will play a pivotal role in India's journey toward a sustainable energy future.