MNRE Policy: ALMM List II – Extension Limited Till Dec 2026

Greetings Solar Community,

The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued an official policy update regarding the implementation of ALMM List-II (for Solar PV Cells). Released via Office Memorandum No. 283/53/2026-GRID SOLAR on 18th July 2026, this order brings vital clarity for developers, EPCs, and C&I entities executing Net-Metering and Open Access renewable energy projects.

At Greenpill, we break down regulatory notices to keep your solar project pipeline compliant and on schedule. Here is your detailed guide to the latest MNRE directive.

What Has Changed?

The MNRE has clarified that there is no blanket extension for the applicability of ALMM List-II across the general solar sector. However, to ensure a smooth transition, the Ministry has carved out a limited exemption window through December 31, 2026, exclusively for Net-Metering and Open Access Renewable Energy Power Projects.

• The Extended Exemption Window: Net-Metering and Open Access RE projects can now achieve grid commissioning with an exemption from sourcing solar PV cells from ALMM List-II until 31st December 2026.
• Previous Cutoff: Prior to this order, the exemption dispensation for Net-Metering and Open Access projects was set to expire on 31st May 2026.
• Mandatory Compliance Date: Any Net-Metering or Open Access RE project commissioned after 31st December 2026 will be strictly required to comply with ALMM List-II cell provisions.

Regulatory Context & Policy Evolution

To understand the trajectory of this ruling, here is a timeline of the underlying Office Memorandums (O.M.s):

• 09.12.2024 & 28.07.2025 O.M.s: MNRE initially stipulated that Net-Metering and Open Access projects commissioning on or after 1st June 2026 must mandatorily source solar PV modules from ALMM List-I and solar PV cells from ALMM List-II.
• 25.05.2026 O.M.: MNRE stated there would be no blanket extension beyond 1st June 2026, subject to protecting investments already made.
• 18.07.2026 O.M. (Current Rulings): In supersession of the May 25, 2026 order and associated O.M.s (dated 8th June 2026, 15th June 2026, and 23rd June 2026), the Ministry finalized the limited exemption extension through 31st December 2026.

Timeline Breakdown

Key Considerations for Developers & Industry Stakeholders

1. Commissioning vs. Supply: The exemption relies strictly on the actual commissioning date (grid synchronization and DISCOM sign-off), not just equipment procurement or site installation.
2. Module Rules Remain Active: While cells enjoy a limited exemption under List-II until year-end, solar modules must continue to be sourced from ALMM List-I.
3. 2027 Supply Chain Planning: Projects expecting completion in 2027 must establish cell procurement lines with ALMM List-II enlisted manufacturers immediately.

Stay informed with Greenpill for further updates on solar policy, grid compliance, and renewable energy market shifts.

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