India to Enforce Approved List of Wafers for Solar Modules from June 2028 to Boost Quality and Self-Reliance – EQ
In Short : The government plans to implement an Approved List of Wafers (ALW) for solar modules starting June 2028. This move aims to enhance quality control, ensure reliable supply chains, and boost domestic manufacturing standards. By regulating wafers, the initiative aligns with India’s renewable energy roadmap, supporting self-reliance while promoting efficiency and sustainability in the solar industry.
In Detail : The government has announced plans to introduce an Approved List of Wafers (ALW) for solar modules, which will come into effect from June 2028. This initiative is part of India’s long-term renewable energy strategy, designed to enhance quality, ensure reliability, and bring standardization into the solar supply chain. Authorities believe this move will significantly strengthen the domestic industry.
The ALW framework will mirror the already existing Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) for solar modules, but with a focus on wafers, a critical component in module production. By ensuring only approved wafers are used, the government seeks to bring traceability and accountability into the manufacturing process. This step is seen as essential for boosting consumer confidence.
Wafers are the backbone of solar modules, and their quality directly affects the efficiency and durability of solar power systems. Currently, India imports a significant portion of its wafers from global suppliers, which creates challenges in maintaining consistent quality standards. With the ALW in place, manufacturers will be encouraged to source or produce wafers that meet strict benchmarks.
Domestic production of wafers is still at a nascent stage, but the government aims to change that by providing policy support and setting a clear roadmap. The introduction of ALW in 2028 gives the industry ample time to develop local manufacturing capabilities. This forward-looking policy also supports India’s goal of reducing dependence on imports.
Industry experts believe the ALW will drive investments into wafer manufacturing within the country. With India’s growing solar capacity targets, the demand for wafers is expected to rise sharply. Having a regulated and approved system will not only attract new players into the sector but also push existing companies to expand their facilities and adopt advanced technologies.
The government’s proposal is also aligned with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, which emphasizes self-reliance across critical industries. By encouraging domestic production of wafers, the solar sector can become more resilient against global supply chain disruptions. This measure is expected to shield the industry from volatility in international markets and geopolitical uncertainties affecting imports.
For module manufacturers, the shift to approved wafers will require compliance with stringent guidelines. While this may increase costs initially, the long-term benefits in terms of efficiency, reliability, and global competitiveness outweigh the challenges. Companies that adapt early are likely to gain a stronger position in both domestic and international markets.
The ALW system is also expected to bring uniformity in quality standards, ensuring that solar installations across India deliver consistent performance. This will enhance trust among project developers, investors, and end-users, leading to faster adoption of solar technologies. Stronger regulations can also help India position itself as a reliable exporter of high-quality solar products.
As India aims to meet its ambitious renewable energy targets, policies like the ALW play a critical role in shaping the sector’s future. By setting standards and timelines, the government provides clarity and direction for stakeholders. The implementation of ALW from June 2028 marks a decisive step toward building a sustainable, competitive, and globally respected solar manufacturing ecosystem.
