MNRE Confirms Stable Solar Supply as Domestic Module Capacity Reaches 172 GW

Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) Secretary Santosh Kumar Sarangi confirmed that no supply constraints are anticipated for solar cells or modules. Despite the impending implementation of the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) List-II mandate, the outlook remains positive due to an exponential rise in domestic manufacturing. This stability follows regulatory adjustments intended to secure the renewable energy supply chain.

Domestic Manufacturing Capacity and ALMM Registration

As of April 2026, India has recorded a measured increase in solar manufacturing capabilities. Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi stated that total solar module manufacturing capacity has risen to 172 GW, compared to 3 GW under the previous regime. Solar cell manufacturing capacity, which was non-existent during the same prior period, has reached 27 GW.

While total manufacturing capacity stands at 172 GW, the specific capacity registered under the ALMM framework currently includes 161 GW for modules. The following table represents the registered capacities as of February 2026:

India Solar Manufacturing Landscape (Current)

ALMM List-II Implementation and Mandates

Under the amendments to the ALMM Order, 2019, the mandatory use of solar PV cells sourced from ALMM List-II will take effect on June 1, 2026. This requirement applies to all solar projects, including government-backed schemes, net-metering, and open access renewable energy initiatives.

The MNRE has specified several exemptions for this mandate:

• Projects with a last date of bid submission prior to the issuance of the ALMM amendment order on December 9, 2024.
• Net-metering and open access renewable energy projects commissioned on or before May 31, 2026.

Additionally, thin-film solar technology manufactured in integrated units is considered compliant with the List-II cell requirements.

Regulatory Shift: Removal of Dual Consent

Solar and wind power projects remain exempt from Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirements until 2026. Further streamlining of the sector is supported by a Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) notification that removes “Dual Consent” requirements for non-polluting industries.

“White category” industries—specifically wind power and solar power generation via photovoltaic cells—are no longer required to obtain Consent to Establish (CTE) or Consent to Operate (CTO).

The MoEFCC has integrated CTE considerations into the Environmental Clearance (EC) process via a single Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). This framework eliminates the need for a separate CTE for industries that have obtained an EC, although developers are still required to pay relevant CTE fees to their respective states.

Sector Milestones and Energy Infrastructure

Data from the Ministry indicates several achievements across the broader energy sector:

• The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is facilitating approximately 10,000 daily solar installations.
• National rooftop solar installations have reached a total of 40 lakh completed units.
• Installed wind energy capacity has increased from 21 GW to 55 GW.