MNRE’s ALMM List Expansion to 27.8GW Capacity
In a significant move bolstering India’s domestic solar manufacturing sector, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has expanded its Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) List-II for solar cells. The total enlisted capacity now stands at an impressive 27.8 GW.
This latest update, announced on April 14, 2026, marks a pivotal moment for the industry with the first-ever inclusion of high-efficiency Heterojunction (HJT) cells.
Driving Domestic Manufacturing Through ALMM List Expansion
The ALMM is a cornerstone of India’s policy to promote self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) in the renewable energy sector. By mandating that government-backed solar projects use cells and modules from enlisted manufacturers, the policy ensures a protected market for domestic producers, driving investment and capacity expansion within the country.
The expansion of List-II to 27.8 GW is a clear indicator of the growing scale and capabilities of Indian solar cell manufacturers. This move is crucial for meeting India’s ambitious renewable energy targets while reducing dependence on imports.
HJT Inclusion: A Technological Advancement in ALMM List Expansion
Perhaps the most noteworthy aspect of this expansion is the addition of HJT cells to the approved list. HJT is a next-generation solar technology that combines the benefits of crystalline silicon with amorphous thin-film silicon layers, resulting in higher efficiency and better performance, especially in high-temperature conditions.
The inclusion of HJT technology signals a significant leap in the technological sophistication of India’s domestic manufacturing ecosystem. It demonstrates that local producers are not only scaling up production volume but are also innovating and mastering advanced, high-performance solar technologies. This advancement is critical for maintaining competitiveness and enhancing the overall quality and output of solar projects across the nation.
This development aligns with recent industry momentum, such as Premier Energies securing 1.6 GW in new supply orders for its solar cells and modules. The company’s ongoing expansion plans are a testament to the positive manufacturing environment fostered by policies like the ALMM.
By expanding the ALMM and embracing cutting-edge technologies like HJT, the MNRE is paving the way for a more robust, self-sufficient, and technologically advanced solar industry in India.
