MNRE rules out blanket ALMM deadline extension, sets up case-by-case exemption route
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has decided not to grant a blanket extension to the June 1, 2026 deadline for mandatory sourcing of solar photovoltaic (PV) cells from the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) List-II. However, the ministry has introduced a case-by-case exemption mechanism for eligible net-metering and open-access renewable energy projects where investments have already been made.
The decision was issued through an office memorandum dated May 25, 2026, following consultations with stakeholders from the solar PV manufacturing and renewable energy development sectors.
According to the ministry, industry participants broadly supported policy continuity to maintain investor confidence in domestic solar manufacturing. At the same time, concerns were raised regarding projects that had already incurred substantial investments prior to the enforcement deadline.
The memorandum stated that genuine cases where solar modules had already reached project sites, installations had been completed but projects were yet to be commissioned, or developers had taken effective steps towards project implementation, would be considered for investment protection on a case-by-case basis.
The ministry has identified two categories under which eligible projects may apply for time extensions for compliance with ALMM List-II requirements.
Category I covers projects where 100% of the required solar PV modules were installed at the project site before June 1, 2026, but commissioning had not taken place by the deadline. Such projects are required to submit certification or approval from the Electrical Inspectorate confirming completion of direct current (DC) side installations, including module installation.
Category II applies to projects where developers had undertaken effective steps towards implementation but commissioning remained incomplete before the deadline. To qualify, developers are required to satisfy three conditions before June 1, 2026: possession of at least 75% of the required land through registered ownership, lease, or government allotment; achievement of financial closure; and receipt of in-principle connectivity approval with a specified start date.
Eligible renewable energy developers are required to submit applications through a dedicated online portal developed by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) by June 30, 2026. Physical applications will not be accepted.
The MNRE said an expert committee will review applications on a project-wise basis, with field inspections to be carried out where necessary. Detailed operational procedures for examination of claims will be issued separately.
The memorandum also referred to a Ministry of Finance notification dated April 29, 2026, which classified the ongoing West Asia situation as war for the purpose of invoking force majeure provisions. Under the directive, contractual obligations affected by disruptions linked to the situation may receive extensions of two to four months without penalty, provided the affected parties were not already in default as of February 27, 2026.
Separately, the ministry clarified that residential net-metering consumers under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSG:MBY) who choose to opt for the “Give It Up” campaign and forgo central financial assistance will continue to remain governed by the scheme guidelines until March 31, 2027. Such consumers are required to apply through the scheme’s national portal.
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