MNRE eases ALMM norms for higher wattage solar PV modules
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued an Office Memorandum introducing relaxed provisions for the inclusion of higher wattage solar photovoltaic (PV) modules in the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM), subject to specified conditions.
Under the revised guidelines, solar PV module manufacturers may enlist higher wattage models with up to a 3% increase over the highest wattage module already listed through physical inspection, without undergoing a fresh factory inspection. This relaxation applies where the manufacturing facility, production line, and machinery remain unchanged and the required documentation is submitted.
For wattage increases exceeding 3%, the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) will conduct an online inspection focused on current-voltage (I-V) curve verification. Following validation of I-V performance, the module may proceed for ALMM enlistment.
Conditions for relaxation
The relaxed provisions apply only where there is no major change in the Bill of Materials, including module design, cell size, or configuration. MNRE stated that the objective is to streamline the enlistment of higher wattage modules where the increase in output is primarily due to improved cell efficiency or higher cell wattage.
New higher wattage models will be added to the existing ALMM-enlisted module family. However, where the permissible wattage range of +1% / –5% cannot accommodate the new models, a separate module family will be created.
Capacity unchanged
The memorandum clarified that the relaxation will not result in any increase in enlisted manufacturing capacity. Manufacturers seeking an increase in enlisted capacity will continue to require physical inspection under the existing procedure.
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