The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has released a draft proposal to introduce a uniform 14-digit alphanumeric model code for solar cell models listed under the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) List-II. The move is aimed at creating a standardised identification system for domestically manufactured solar PV cells, improving traceability and simplifying product identification across the industry.
Issued through an Office Memorandum, the draft framework seeks to replace the diverse proprietary naming conventions currently used by manufacturers with a common coding structure. According to MNRE, the absence of a uniform nomenclature has resulted in significant variations in model names, making it difficult to consistently identify the technical specifications and manufacturing details of solar PV cells.
The proposed 14-digit code will serve as a unique identifier for every ALMM-listed solar cell model while embedding key technical information within the model name itself. The ministry believes the standardised system will enhance product traceability, improve regulatory compliance, and streamline identification throughout the domestic solar manufacturing value chain.
Key features of the proposed coding framework include:
- 14-digit alphanumeric unique model identification.
- Indicates the origin of wafer, ingot and polysilicon.
- Identifies cell technology such as Mono PERC, TOPCon, HJT and Back Contact.
- Includes details on wafer size, busbars, and manufacturer-specific product variants.
Under the proposed structure, the first three characters will indicate whether the wafer, ingot and polysilicon are sourced domestically or imported. The subsequent characters will identify the solar cell technology, followed by information relating to wafer dimensions, the number of busbars, and a manufacturer-specific identifier representing the product variant, revision or brand. MNRE has also shared illustrative examples explaining how the coding system would be interpreted.
The ministry said the standardised nomenclature would not only facilitate enrolment under ALMM List-II but also support regulatory, commercial and industry-wide applications by providing a common product identifier. In addition, the coding system will help distinguish the domestic or imported origin of key upstream materials used in solar cell manufacturing, complementing the existing Bill of Materials (BoM) disclosure requirements under the ALMM framework.
MNRE has invited comments and suggestions from manufacturers and other stakeholders on the proposed nomenclature. Feedback can be submitted to the ministry until August 13, 2026, after which the final coding framework is expected to be notified.
The proposal is part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen transparency, quality assurance and standardisation in India’s rapidly expanding domestic solar manufacturing ecosystem while supporting the country’s clean energy and self-reliance objectives.
Electrify your feed! Click here to join our Whatsapp group and to get the latest updates, expert insights, and innovations driving India’s energy storage revolution.
