India’s Latest Policy Updates on Non‑DCR Solar Panels: What Developers Need to Know
India’s solar manufacturing policy landscape has changed significantly over the past year, with the Government tightening requirements around the use of domestically manufactured solar cells and modules. For developers, EPC contractors, and investors, the key question is: What happens to Non‑DCR (Non‑Domestic Content Requirement) solar panels? The Big Policy Shift The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has strengthened the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) framework, which governs the solar modules and cells eligible for use in specified projects in India. According to MNRE, the first ALMM List-II for solar PV cells was published on 31 July 2025, adding a domestic-cell requirement to complement the existing ALMM module requirement.
On 28 July 2025, MNRE issued an amendment clarifying implementation timelines for solar-cell compliance. The Government confirmed that:
The mandatory use of ALMM-listed solar PV cells will apply to projects commissioned on or after 1 June 2026. The requirement becomes operational one month after publication of the ALMM cell list. Certain projects bid out before the prescribed cut-off dates may receive exemptions to avoid disruption to ongoing investments.
What Does This Mean for Non‑DCR Panels? Historically, many projects in India used modules assembled in India but containing imported cells, primarily from China and Southeast Asia. These are commonly referred to as Non‑DCR panels. Under the evolving ALMM regime:
Government projects, government-assisted projects, open-access projects, and net-metering projects increasingly need to use products compliant with ALMM requirements. From June 2026 onward, compliance is expected to require not only ALMM-listed modules but also ALMM-listed cells for applicable projects.
MNRE has issued several clarifications and transition provisions to protect investments already made and to facilitate project implementation. These notices are published on the official ALMM portal maintained by MNRE.
Why the Government Is Doing This The Government has stated that the ALMM mechanism is intended to:
Protect consumers by ensuring product traceability and quality. Strengthen India’s energy security. Promote domestic solar manufacturing capacity.
According to MNRE, India’s manufacturing base has expanded rapidly, reaching approximately 91 GW of solar module capacity and 27 GW of solar cell capacity by mid‑2025.
Industry Impact
The policy direction clearly indicates that India intends to build a fully integrated domestic solar supply chain. While Non‑DCR products may continue to find use in segments not covered by ALMM requirements, project developers involved in government-linked, open-access, or net-metered projects should carefully evaluate future procurement strategies and ALMM compliance obligations. The transition period currently underway is designed to give manufacturers and developers time to adapt while maintaining project momentum.