Definition
ALMM (Approved List of Models and Manufacturers) is MNRE's official roster of solar module and inverter models permitted for use in government-subsidized, DCR-mandated, and CFA projects in India. List I covers modules; List II covers inverters.
Quick Facts
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | ALMM — Approved List of Models and Manufacturers |
| Category | India Solar Regulations |
| Governance | MNRE |
| Portal | almm.mnre.gov.in |
| Difficulty Level | Beginner |
ALMM Categories
List I — PV Modules
Modules from manufacturers that meet:
- BIS certification (IS 14286).
- MNRE Technical Specifications.
- Factory audit by MNRE-empaneled auditors.
List II — Inverters
Inverters meeting:
- BIS certification (IS 16221).
- IEC 62109-1/2 compliance.
- IEC 62116 anti-islanding.
How to Verify ALMM Listing
- Visit almm.mnre.gov.in.
- Search by manufacturer or model.
- Check listing validity date.
- Download certificate for project file.
ALMM-Eligible Manufacturers (Examples)
Modules
- Adani Solar
- Waaree Energies
- Goldi Solar
- Vikram Solar
- Premier Solar
- Tata Power Solar
- ReNew Solar
- Jindal India Solar
- Mahindra Susten
- Many state-specific brands
Inverters
- Sungrow
- Huawei (India entity)
- SMA India
- ABB India
- Delta Electronics India
- Schneider Electric India
- Polycab
- Sungrow Smart Solar
Common Mistakes
- Specifying a popular international brand not on ALMM for a subsidized project.
- Using expired ALMM listing.
- Assuming ALMM = DCR (they’re different requirements).
- Buying gray-market modules claiming ALMM without portal verification.
Best Practices
- Verify ALMM listing before contracting for subsidized projects.
- Download ALMM certificate at point of purchase.
- For DCR-mandated projects, cross-check both ALMM and DCR eligibility.
- Maintain ALMM verification screenshots in project documentation.
Standards
- IS 14286 (Modules).
- IS 16221, IS 16170 (Inverters).
- MNRE Technical Specifications.
Key Takeaways
- ALMM is India’s mandatory approved list of solar modules and inverters for subsidized and government projects.
- List I = modules; List II = inverters. Both lists maintained by MNRE.
- Required for residential subsidies, government tenders, PM-KUSUM, SECI auctions.
- Not mandatory for purely private commercial; verify with DISCOM for net metering acceptance.
- Always verify listing via almm.mnre.gov.in before purchase commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 commonly searched questions about ALMM.
What is ALMM?
Approved List of Models and Manufacturers — MNRE's roster of solar modules (List I) and inverters (List II) permitted in subsidized and government-procured solar projects in India. Inclusion based on BIS certification and MNRE technical specifications.
Is ALMM mandatory for all solar projects?
No. Mandatory for: government tenders, MNRE-subsidized residential rooftop, CFA-eligible projects, PM-KUSUM, SECI auctions. Not mandatory for purely private commercial or non-subsidized residential.
How do I check if a module is ALMM-listed?
Check the MNRE ALMM portal (almm.mnre.gov.in). Modules listed by manufacturer + model + wattage. Updated periodically.
How long is an ALMM listing valid?
Listing typically valid 2 years from issuance. Manufacturers must renew with updated BIS certificates and factory audit reports.
What's the difference between ALMM List I and List II?
List I: modules (PV panels). List II: inverters. Some projects require both lists; some only modules.
Can foreign manufacturers be ALMM-listed?
Yes, but must have BIS certification from accredited Indian labs (often via partner) and meet MNRE Technical Specifications. Most Chinese, Korean, US manufacturers operate via Indian subsidiaries or licensees.
Do residential subsidies require ALMM?
Yes. MNRE Rooftop Solar Programme Phase II subsidy requires ALMM-listed modules and inverters.
Does ALMM apply to DISCOM net metering?
Varies. Most state DISCOMs maintain their own approved lists that overlap with ALMM. Some states require strict ALMM compliance for net metering applications; others accept BIS-certified equipment without ALMM.
Why was ALMM created?
Quality control. Pre-ALMM, low-quality modules from grey-market manufacturers caused field failures. ALMM ensures consistent product quality from registered manufacturers.
Is ALMM the same as DCR?
No. ALMM is a quality and registration list. DCR (Domestic Content Requirement) is a separate provenance requirement — modules must be manufactured in India. Government projects often require both ALMM-listed AND DCR-eligible modules.
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