The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued clarifications regarding the inclusion of solar cells in the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM). MNRE clarified that solar cells with potential induced degradation (PID) and non-PID characteristics will be considered different product families and enlisted separately. Moreover, cell data such as efficiency and wattage will be collected during ALMM inspection and used to calculate and enlist average efficiency.
Physical ALMM audits will be optional for certain minor changes in cell attributes. These include efficiency changes within ± 2 per cent (relative), dimension changes within ± 2 mm in length or width, and thickness changes within ± 10 μm. However, manufacturers must submit fresh declarations when there are changes in process flow or raw materials used for cell production.
Furthermore, the MNRE also clarified that temperature coefficients do not vary significantly within the same cell technology but differ across technologies. Therefore, each cell technology must be enlisted separately through distinct applications. All reference solar cells will be calibrated according to International Electrotechnical Commission 60904 standards. The enlistment will cover various cell types, technologies, dimensions, and PID or non-PID product families. However, there will be no classification based on wattage or efficiency. For minor changes, factory inspection will remain optional.
