India's Solar Push Faces Manufacturing Challenges Amid Cell Mandate Delay
India's Solar Push Faces Manufacturing Challenges Amid Cell Mandate Delay
IN · Published Jul 19, 2026
India's solar energy ambitions have encountered a significant hurdle due to a delay in implementing the Approved List of Models & Manufacturers (ALMM) List-II mandate. This policy requires all government-backed, net-metered, and open-access solar projects commissioned from June 1, 2026, to use solar panels made with domestically produced cells. However, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has extended the exemption for mandatory domestic cell sourcing until December 31,
The delay highlights a mismatch between India's domestic solar cell production capacity, currently at 31 GW, and its module manufacturing capacity of 193 GW. The gap is even more pronounced in advanced solar technologies like TOPCon, where domestic cell capacity is only 10 GW compared to 172 GW of approved module capacity.

Impact & Risks

The delay in implementing the ALMM List-II mandate could impact India's solar energy targets and the financial stability of domestic manufacturers. Many module manufacturers, who invested under the existing policy framework, now face challenges in sourcing compliant domestic cells. The shortage of advanced solar cells like TOPCon may force manufacturers to modify production lines, leading to increased costs, operational disruptions, and potential project delays. Additionally, the high capital investment required for solar cell manufacturing, coupled with long gestation periods, poses financial risks for standalone manufacturers already burdened with debt.

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