MNRE Expands ALMM with 3.5 GW of Solar Module Capacity

With this addition, the cumulative manufacturing capacity of solar modules in the country now stands at 37,421 MW.

March 26, 2024. By Abha Rustagi

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has announced an increase in the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM), adding 3,501 MW of solar module capacity.

With this addition, the cumulative manufacturing capacity of solar modules in the country now stands at 37,421 MW.

Among the notable contributors to this expanded capacity are Tata Power Solar, contributing 2,525 MW, and Goldi Solar, adding 976 MW. The latest update brings the total number of module manufacturers on the ALMM to 83.

The MNRE's reforms include changes to the ALMM, introducing additional module technology, and setting minimum efficiency standards. Notably, cadmium telluride thin film-based models have been incorporated alongside crystalline-silicon models. These models must adhere to Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) norms and meet specific minimum module efficiency standards.

Under the new standards, cadmium telluride thin film-based modules must achieve minimum efficiency levels depending on their designated categories. For grid-scale power projects (Category I), a minimum module efficiency of 19 percent is required. Rooftop and solar pumping systems (Category II) necessitate a minimum efficiency of 18.5 percent, while solar lighting applications (Category III) mandate an efficiency of 18 percent.

These efficiency standards are set to serve as compulsory benchmarks for modules utilized in government projects, ensuring that solar installations across various sectors meet the performance criteria.

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Policies & Regulations

MNRE

Ministry of New and Renewable Energy

Solar module manufacturer

Tata Power Solar Systems

Goldi Solar