India’s solar manufacturing ecosystem is entering a decisive phase as the implementation of ALMM List II from June 1, 2026, pushes the industry toward domestically manufactured solar cells for government-linked and subsidy-based projects.
Speaking on the evolving market dynamics, Mr. Rohit Tikku, CEO of Bluebird Solar, said the transition toward DCR-compliant modules will accelerate rapidly, although non-DCR products will continue to remain relevant for select applications in the near term.
“Non-DCR modules will still remain in use for the next 6–9 months for projects that currently have ALMM List II exemptions. However, rooftop installations will largely shift toward DCR-compliant products, and going forward, the major market demand will clearly be for DCR modules.”
From June 1, 2026, solar modules used in projects linked to government schemes, subsidies, net-metering, and open-access installations must use cells approved under ALMM List II.
- PM Surya Ghar residential rooftop projects
- PM KUSUM installations
- Government solar tenders
- Open-access solar projects
- Net-metered rooftop systems
Addressing concerns around supply shortages and rising module prices, Mr. Tikku stated that India’s domestic solar cell manufacturing ecosystem is scaling up rapidly.
“Currently, India’s solar cell manufacturing capacity has already crossed 34 GW. In the next 7–8 months, this capacity is expected to reach nearly 50–60 GW.”
“As India moves toward energy independence, integrated solar manufacturing, EPC expansion, and energy storage solutions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of India’s renewable energy ecosystem.”
Bluebird Solar is moving ahead with plans to establish 2.5 GW solar cell manufacturing capacity, aligning with India’s vision of reducing dependence on imported cells and building a self-reliant solar manufacturing ecosystem.
Industry observers believe the rooftop solar segment, particularly under PM Surya Ghar Yojana, will become one of the largest demand drivers for DCR modules over the next 12 months.
With India pushing aggressively toward energy independence and domestic manufacturing, the coming year is expected to redefine the competitive landscape of the Indian solar industry.
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