Govt Plans To Register Only Indian Solar Panels In ALMM: RK Singh
The government is currently planning to add solar panels to the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) in the next three to four years. They are especially focused on adding panels made entirely of domestically produced cells, wafers, and polysilicon.
As reported by PTI, officials in the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, led by Minister RK Singh, have been directed to develop a policy that will accomplish this goal.
The government launched the ALMM to encourage homegrown solar panel manufacturing. Notably, the minister stressed that modules with inferior efficiency will not be included in the ALMM.
Minister Singh expressed the government's intent to fine-tune their policies, with a strong emphasis on protecting solar panel modules containing Indian-made cells.
Over the next one to two years, they plan to introduce a policy to this effect, followed by another policy within the subsequent 1-2 years, focusing on ensuring that wafers and polysilicon are also domestically sourced, the minister noted.
He additionally outlined the stringent criteria for registration under the ALMM, making it clear that only those entities producing cells, wafers, and polysilicon within India would be eligible for inclusion.
This strategic move is envisioned to significantly bolster the 'Make-in-India' campaign, with the government firmly committed to discouraging the importation of solar panel components in the coming years.
Minister Singh firmly stated that the practice of importing cells from abroad, assembling them domestically, and falsely marketing them as 'Made in India,' particularly when a significant portion originates from China, will not be permitted. Additionally, he announced a thorough review of the ALMM to be carried out in the coming year.
In conclusion, it was emphasised that manufacturers will not be permitted to promote outdated equipment or technology, underscoring the government's dedication to safeguarding the interests of the Indian populace.
