The government expanded the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) to include solar ingots and wafers, in addition to existing coverage of modules and cells. The new requirement becomes effective from June 1, 2028, giving domestic manufacturers time to scale up production. Mandatory technical inspection by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) is required for listing. The expansion aims to strengthen the domestic solar manufacturing value chain and reduce import dependence, particularly from China which supplies over 90% of global solar wafer production. This aligns with India's 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity target by 2030.
ALMM Expanded to Include Solar Ingots and Wafers; Effective June 2028
AQuick answer
ALMM expanded to solar ingots and wafers effective June 2028 to strengthen domestic solar manufacturing and reduce Chinese imports.
Key facts
- The government expanded the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) to include solar ingots and wafers, beyond existing modules and cells.
- The new ALMM requirement for ingots and wafers becomes effective from June 1, 2028.
- Mandatory technical inspection by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) is required for listing.
- China currently supplies over 90% of global solar wafer production.
- The expansion aligns with India's 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity target by 2030.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the ALMM and why was it expanded to include solar ingots and wafers?
The **Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM)** is a government certification framework for solar equipment used in India. It was expanded to include **solar ingots and wafers** — in addition to existing modules and cells — to strengthen India's domestic solar manufacturing value chain and reduce import dependence, particularly from **China**, which supplies over **90%** of global solar wafer production.
When will the new ALMM requirement for solar ingots and wafers become effective?
The new ALMM requirement for solar ingots and wafers becomes effective from **June 1, 2028**. This timeline gives domestic manufacturers sufficient lead time to **scale up production** and obtain the required certifications before the mandate kicks in.
Which agency conducts mandatory technical inspection for ALMM listing of solar products?
The **National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE)** conducts mandatory technical inspection for ALMM listing. NISE certification is compulsory for any solar ingot, wafer, module or cell manufacturer to be included on the approved list, ensuring quality standards are maintained.
How does the ALMM expansion for solar ingots and wafers align with India's renewable energy targets?
The ALMM expansion supports India's target of **500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030**. By mandating domestic sourcing of the entire solar value chain — from ingots and wafers to cells and modules — it aims to reduce the over **90% import dependency** on China and build a self-reliant solar manufacturing ecosystem.
What is the difference between solar ingots, wafers, cells, and modules in the ALMM framework?
In the solar supply chain: **ingots** are blocks of purified silicon; **wafers** are thin slices cut from ingots; **cells** are wafers processed to generate electricity; and **modules** are assembled arrays of cells. Previously, ALMM covered only **modules and cells** — the new expansion adds **ingots and wafers** to cover the full upstream manufacturing chain.
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