ALMM Policy Unchanged, Relief Extended for Select Solar Projects till Dec 2026
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Economy
Why in news
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has extended the exemption from ALMM List-II for net-metering and open access renewable energy projects until December 31, 2026, providing relief to developers. This decision comes after stakeholder consultations and aims to support domestic solar module manufacturers while ensuring a smooth transition to ALMM compliance.
Background
The Approved Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) list is a government mandate requiring solar projects to use modules and cells from approved domestic manufacturers. List-II specifically covers solar PV cells. The policy aims to reduce import dependence and boost domestic manufacturing under the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative.
Key facts
No change in ALMM policy; no blanket extension for all solar projects.
Net-metering and open access renewable energy projects exempted from ALMM List-II (solar PV cells) until 31 Dec 2026.
Previous exemption deadline was 31 May 2026.
Decision follows detailed consultations with solar industry stakeholders.
Extension helps independent solar PV module manufacturers by creating additional demand and protecting inventory investments.
Provides time for module makers to source cells from ALMM List-II manufacturers as cell capacity in the list is increasing.
Government remains committed to making India self-reliant in solar energy manufacturing.
OM dated 18.07.2026 issued by MNRE available on mnre.gov.in.
Prelims pointers
- ALMM: Approved Models and Manufacturers list
- ALMM List-II: for solar PV cells
- MNRE: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
- Net-metering
- Open Access renewable energy projects
- Atmanirbhar Bharat
- Solar PV modules and cells
- 31 December 2026: new exemption deadline
Mains angles
- GS3: Government policies for renewable energy and domestic manufacturing
- GS3: Energy security and self-reliance in solar sector
- GS2: Role of stakeholder consultations in policy formulation
- GS3: Challenges in transitioning to ALMM compliance for small projects