India Achieves Historic 100 GW Solar PV Module Manufacturing Capacity – Boost to Renewable Energy Sector
India has crossed a remarkable milestone in its renewable energy journey. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) recently announced that the nation has successfully achieved a total installed solar Photo Voltaic (PV) module manufacturing capacity of 100 Giga Watts (GW) under the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM). This achievement comes as part of the government's dynamic policies aimed at fostering green energy and aligns strongly with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Announced by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, this surge from just 2.3 GW in 2014 to 100 GW in 2025 represents a quantum leap in indigenous solar manufacturing. This move not only supports the environment but significantly contributes to India's strategic goal of installing 500 GW of non-fossil-based capacity by the year 2030.
Let's explore everything you need to know about this important development in India's renewable energy sector—from its policy framework to applicability and future implementation roadmap.
🔎 Key Highlights of MNRE Solar Mission 2025
| Organization Name | Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) |
|---|---|
| Initiative | Solar PV Manufacturing Capacity under ALMM |
| Capacity Achieved | 100 GW (as of August 2025) |
| Initial Capacity (2014) | 2.3 GW |
| Applicable Schemes | PM-KUSUM, PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana |
| Cell Registration Authority | Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) |
| Registration Validity | 2 Years |
| Official Website | https://mnre.gov.in/ |
🌞 What is the ALMM (Approved List of Models and Manufacturers)?
The ALMM Order was introduced by MNRE on 2nd January 2019 to ensure transparency and quality in the deployment of solar photovoltaic modules and cells across India. The list mandates developers to use certified solar PV models and components in various government-backed schemes.
Evolution of the ALMM Framework:
- 📌 1st ALMM List Released (2021): Included approximately 8.2 GW of module capacity.
- 📌 By 2025: Over 123 manufacturers are enlisted under the ALMM framework.
- 📌 Product Certificate: Manufacturers must acquire performance certificate from BIS.
- 📌 Validity: Inclusion under the list remains valid for 2 years.
- 📌 Use-Case: Mandatory for government-supported projects and projects supplying power to DISCOMs.
🚫 Temporary Suspension in FY 2023-24
During the financial year 2023–24, the procurement of modules from ALMM-listed manufacturers was temporarily suspended due to supply chain and logistical considerations. However, this was a short-term measure and MNRE reinstated requirements subsequently.
📘 Introduction of ALMM List-II: Solar PV Cells
In December 2024, MNRE amended the existing ALMM Order and introduced a new ALMM List-II for solar PV cells.
Effective from June 1, 2026, this list will encompass requirements for sourcing solar cells specifically used in ALMM-compliant modules, expanding the policy's oversight to another layer of the solar power value chain.
🌐 Applicability of ALMM
- Mandatory for: Government-supported rooftop solar programs and schemes like:
- Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM)
- PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana
- Optional for: Private projects built under Open Access or Captive Consumption models
⚡ About PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana
This flagship scheme was approved in February 2024 with a budget outlay of ₹75,021 crore and is being implemented till FY 2026–27. The scheme aims to provide 300 units of free electricity per month to 1 crore families across India.
Key Features:
- Objective: Reduce electricity bills for households and promote rooftop solar usage.
- Central Implementation: National Programme Implementation Agency (NPIA)
- State-Level Execution: Through respective State Implementation Agencies (SIAs)
- This initiative aligns with ALMM's certified models, ensuring quality and compliance.
🎯 Strategic Significance of Achieving 100 GW Manufacturing Capacity
Reaching this capacity doesn't just spotlight India's manufacturing strength—it enhances the country's geo-political energy independence, provides employment, supports domestic industries, and most importantly, cements India's pledge to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.
Solar manufacturing is instrumental in addressing climate goals while simultaneously uplifting economic self-reliance.
📌 Summary
- India's solar PV module manufacturing capacity: Now stands at 100 GW
- ALMM Order (2019): Mandatory list ensuring quality in solar deployment
- Over 123 manufacturers: Enlisted in 2025
- ALMM List-II: Introduced for solar cells; mandatory from June 2026
- PM Surya Ghar Yojana: 1 crore households to receive up to 300 free electricity units
- Long-term Target: 500 GW non-fossil energy by 2030
📍 About Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE)
- Union Minister: Pralhad Joshi (Dharwad, Karnataka)
- Minister of State: Shripad Yesso Naik (North Goa, Goa)
- Official Website: mnre.gov.in
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