The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued a clarification laying down the procedure for rooftop solar projects seeking exemption from the applicability of Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) List-II for solar photovoltaic (PV) cells. The relaxation applies only to projects where 100 per cent of the required solar PV modules had been installed before June 1, 2026, but commissioning under the net-metering framework was delayed due to valid reasons. According to the latest clarification from Power Line Magazine, this exemption is available for projects that could not be commissioned by the concerned distribution company under the net-metering framework.
Developers seeking exemption must apply through the designated portal with supporting documents, including GIS-tagged site photographs, invoices, installation reports and self-certification. As reported by Power Line Magazine, MNRE has allowed case-by-case exemptions for projects to protect investments already made and had received requests for a simplified procedure or framework for claiming exemption in respect of rooftop solar power projects. The ministry has specified that all documentation must be provided to support the exemption claim and ensure proper tracking of delayed projects.
Between the time an application is made and the final decision is taken, the discom can verify such projects based on supporting documentary proof provided by developers and allow their commissioning with solar modules from ALMM List-I. According to the ministry's communication to stakeholders reported by Power Line Magazine, this window will be available only for one month from the date of issuance of this clarification, within which all such projects are to be commissioned. This represents a one-time transitional relief and does not extend the June 1, 2026 effective date for the applicability of ALMM List-II to net-metering, open access and other renewable power projects.
If any project is delayed due to issues with the discom, that should be recorded in writing while issuing the commissioning certificate. As reported by Power Line Magazine, the ministry has specified that all documentation must be provided to support the exemption claim and ensure proper tracking of delayed projects. The ministry has clarified that this is a one-time transitional relief and does not extend the June 1, 2026 effective date for the applicability of ALMM List-II to net-metering, open access and other renewable power projects.
