Impressive ALMM List Expansion to 27.8GW: Unique HJT Boost for Indian Solar
India’s push for solar self-sufficiency has taken a significant leap forward as the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) updated its Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) for solar cells. The revision, effective from April 13, 2026, has expanded the total enlisted domestic manufacturing capacity to an impressive 27,753 MW, or nearly 27.8 GW. This latest expansion is particularly notable for its inclusion of next-generation solar technology.
HJT Technology Integration on Approved List
For the first time, high-efficiency Heterojunction (HJT) cells have been added to the ALMM, marking a crucial step in the technological advancement of India’s domestic manufacturing sector. The update saw the inclusion of 1,238 MW of HJT cell capacity from Reliance. This addition was part of a broader expansion in April that added over 3,400 MW to the list, which also included 991 MW of PERC cells from Jupiter Solar, further diversifying the approved technologies available from domestic sources.
HJT is an advanced solar cell technology that combines crystalline silicon with amorphous thin-film silicon layers. This hybrid structure results in higher conversion efficiency and superior performance, particularly in high-temperature environments common across India. The inclusion of HJT signals that Indian manufacturers are not only scaling up production but are also mastering cutting-edge technologies vital for global competitiveness.
Strengthening Domestic Manufacturing Through ALMM Policy
The ALMM is a key policy instrument under the Indian government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative. By mandating that government-sponsored solar projects and schemes procure cells and modules exclusively from manufacturers on this list, the policy creates a protected and stable market. This encourages investment in domestic production facilities, reduces the nation’s reliance on imported components, and helps secure the supply chain for India’s ambitious renewable energy targets. The consistent expansion of the ALMM list underscores the growing capability and scale of the country’s solar manufacturing ecosystem.
Sources
- India Adds Heterojunction Cell Tech to Approved Solar List
- India’s MNRE expands ALMM List-II to 27.8GW, adds HJT cells
