As of 2026, India has not imposed a blanket ban on non-DCR solar panels. However, the rules have become stricter depending on the project type and whether government incentives are involved.
Current Position
Residential Rooftop Solar (PM Surya Ghar Scheme)
- If you claim the Central Financial Assistance (subsidy), you must comply with the government's requirements, including the applicable DCR/ALMM conditions.
- If you voluntarily give up the subsidy ("Give It Up" option), the Ministry has clarified that you may install non-DCR solar modules for residential rooftop systems under the scheme until 31 March 2027, subject to the scheme's conditions.
Commercial & Industrial (C&I) Projects
For most commercial and industrial projects:
- Non-DCR panels are still permitted, provided the project complies with applicable BIS certification and other regulatory requirements.
- However, where projects fall under Government schemes, Government-assisted projects, Open Access, Net Metering categories covered by MNRE's ALMM Order, or government tenders, only ALMM-listed modules are eligible, and the applicable ALMM requirements for cells/modules must be followed.
Government Projects
Government-funded or government-supported solar projects generally require:
- ALMM-approved modules.
- Increasing compliance with ALMM-listed solar cells as per the latest MNRE implementation schedule.
What This Means for EPC Companies
For clients, the choice should depend on the project:
- Residential with subsidy: DCR/ALMM-compliant systems are generally required.
- Residential without subsidy: Non-DCR modules are currently allowed under the MNRE clarification for eligible projects until the specified scheme deadline.
- Commercial & industrial private projects: Non-DCR modules may still be used where permitted, but ALMM applicability should be checked based on the project's regulatory category.
- Government projects: ALMM-compliant products are generally mandatory.
Recommendation
Given the evolving regulatory framework, an EPC contractor should:
- Verify the latest MNRE ALMM requirements before finalising module selection.
- Evaluate whether the project qualifies for subsidies, government procurement, open access, or other categories that trigger ALMM compliance.
- Advise clients based on lifecycle performance, warranty, availability, regulatory compliance, and total project economics rather than only initial module cost.
The ALMM framework continues to evolve, so checking the latest MNRE notifications before procurement is essential
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