MNRE clarifies ALMM norms for solar cells, defines rules for PID variants

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has released detailed clarifications on the inclusion of solar cells in the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM). The guidelines define how product families and minor changes will be handled during the enlistment process.

Solar cells with and without potential induced degradation (PID) resistance will be considered distinct product families and will be listed separately. Efficiency and wattage data collected during ALMM inspections will be used to determine average efficiency for listing, though classification will not be based on wattage or efficiency.

Physical factory audits will be optional for minor changes such as:

• Efficiency changes within ±2% (relative)
  
  
• Dimension changes within ±2 mm in length or width
  
  
• Thickness changes within ±10 μm
  
  

However, changes in raw materials or process flow will require new declarations from manufacturers.

The ministry further clarified that temperature coefficients vary only across different cell technologies. As a result, each technology type must be submitted under separate applications. Calibration of reference solar cells will follow IEC 60904 standards.

Enlistment under ALMM will reflect cell type, technology, dimensions, and PID/non-PID status, while wattage and efficiency will not be standalone classification criteria.