India’s solar industry has been closely watching the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) regarding the implementation of ALMM List-II requirements for solar cells. The latest clarification issued by MNRE on 25 May 2026 confirms that there will be no blanket extension beyond 1 June 2026 for the mandatory use of ALMM-compliant solar cells in several project categories.
For businesses, industries, and rooftop solar customers in Bangalore, this update is extremely important while planning upcoming solar installations and open-access renewable energy projects.
What is ALMM List-II?
The Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) is a government-approved list designed to promote domestic solar manufacturing and ensure quality standards in India’s solar sector.
Under the updated MNRE clarification:
- Projects commissioned on or after 1 June 2026 must use:
- ALMM List-I approved solar modules
- ALMM List-II approved solar cells
This applies to:
- Open Access solar projects
- Captive and Group Captive projects
- Commercial & Industrial (C&I) rooftop systems
- Third-party renewable energy projects
- Net-metering installations
Why This Matters for Bangalore Solar Projects
Bangalore has become one of India’s fastest-growing cities for:
- Industrial rooftop solar
- Commercial solar installations
- Open access solar adoption
- Residential rooftop systems
With rising electricity tariffs and increased sustainability goals, many companies are investing heavily in solar power. The new MNRE clarification means developers and businesses can no longer assume that non-ALMM solar cells will remain permissible after 1 June 2026.
Any new solar project planned after the deadline should now be designed assuming mandatory ALMM List-II compliance.
Why the Industry Requested an Extension
Several solar developers and EPC companies had requested MNRE to postpone the implementation due to:
- Supply chain disruptions
- Delays caused by global conflicts
- Investments already made using non-ALMM modules and cells before the deadline
However, MNRE has decided to continue with the implementation to support domestic solar cell manufacturing and provide long-term policy certainty.
Is Any Relaxation Available?
Yes — but only on a case-by-case basis.
MNRE has clarified that projects showing substantial progress before 1 June 2026 may apply for exemption from the ALMM List-II cell requirement.
Category 1 – Modules Already Installed
Projects may qualify if:
- 100% of required solar modules were installed before 1 June 2026
- Project commissioning is still pending
Category 2 – Effective Steps Already Taken
Projects may also qualify if they have completed major milestones before 1 June 2026, including:
- At least 75% land possession
- Financial closure completed
- Connectivity approvals obtained
- Electrical drawing approvals secured
- Significant module delivery or installation completed
Important Deadline for Exemption Applications
Eligible developers must apply through the NISE portal before:
30 June 2026
Applications will be reviewed individually by an expert committee and approvals are not automatic.
Impact on Residential Rooftop Solar in Bangalore
Residential rooftop solar projects under the PM Surya Ghar scheme will continue under separate guidelines.
However, commercial rooftop systems, industrial installations, and large net-metering projects in Bangalore should carefully verify:
- Solar module sourcing
- Solar cell compliance
- EPC procurement timelines
- Project commissioning schedules
before finalizing procurement decisions.
What Bangalore Businesses Should Do Now
If your solar project:
- is already under execution,
- has completed approvals,
- or has procured modules before 1 June 2026,
you should immediately prepare all supporting documentation and evaluate exemption eligibility.
If your project is still in planning stage, it is safer to proceed assuming full ALMM List-II compliance.
Final Thoughts
The latest MNRE clarification clearly signals the government’s long-term commitment toward strengthening India’s domestic solar manufacturing ecosystem. While limited relief is available for substantially progressed projects, the overall direction is clear — ALMM List-II implementation is moving forward from 1 June 2026.
For businesses and homeowners planning rooftop solar installations in Bangalore, early planning, compliant procurement, and proper technical guidance will now become more important than ever.