DCR solar modules, ALMM list and BIS certification explained for home buyers
What DCR modules are, how MNRE's ALMM lists for modules and cells work, which BIS standards apply to panels, inverters and batteries, and how to check them before installation.
To receive PM Surya Ghar subsidy, your rooftop system must use DCR modules: solar modules made in India with solar cells also made in India, from manufacturers on the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy's Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM). Separately, solar modules, inverters and many battery types sold in India must carry BIS certification under the Bureau of Indian Standards' compulsory registration scheme. In practice you check three things before you sign: that the quotation says "DCR", that the module model is on the current ALMM list, and that the vendor will hand over the DCR certificate and module serial numbers. This guide explains each term and how to check it without being an engineer.
Three different things that get mixed up
| Term | Who sets it | What it means for you |
|---|---|---|
| DCR (Domestic Content Requirement) | MNRE, as a scheme condition | Modules and cells must be domestically manufactured for CFA eligibility |
| ALMM (Approved List of Models and Manufacturers) | MNRE | Only listed module (and, under List-II, cell) models may be used in government-supported projects |
| BIS registration | Bureau of Indian Standards, under quality control orders | The product has been tested to the relevant Indian Standard and carries the registration mark |
A module can be BIS-registered and on the ALMM, but still not DCR if it uses imported cells. That module would not qualify for the PM Surya Ghar CFA. So "BIS approved" or "ALMM listed" on a brochure is not enough; you need DCR.
DCR in detail
The scheme requires domestically manufactured modules made with domestically manufactured cells. Manufacturers supplying DCR modules issue a DCR certificate linked to the module serial numbers, and this certificate is part of the documents checked before the subsidy is released. The amended scheme guidelines also apply DCR to housing society and RWA installations that claim CFA.
Why DCR modules cost more: domestic cell manufacturing capacity has been growing but has been smaller than module capacity, so DCR modules have generally carried a price premium over modules with imported cells. That premium is built into the quotation; the subsidy is meant to more than offset it for small systems.
How to check
- Ask for the module make, model and wattage in the quotation and the words "DCR" against it.
- Ask the vendor for a sample DCR certificate from that manufacturer before you sign.
- On installation day, photograph each module's label and serial number.
- Make sure the DCR certificate you receive lists your modules' serial numbers.
ALMM in detail
MNRE maintains the ALMM. List-I covers solar PV modules: manufacturers and models that have been inspected and enlisted. List-II covers solar PV cells; MNRE notified that projects under government schemes, including rooftop schemes, must also use cells from List-II from a date announced as 1 June 2026, subject to the exemptions in MNRE's orders. Since PM Surya Ghar already required domestic cells through DCR, List-II mainly formalises which cell makers count. MNRE did not grant a general extension of that date but has considered case-specific exemptions, and news reports describe a separate relaxation, until 31 March 2027, for residential consumers who forgo the subsidy (the "Give It Up" option). Check the current ALMM orders and lists on MNRE's website, as exemptions and dates have been revised before.
BIS standards that matter for a home system
Under quality control orders for solar products, items such as crystalline silicon PV modules, grid-connected inverters and storage batteries must be registered with BIS before sale. The registration number appears on the product label as the Standard Mark with an R-number. You can search a registration on the BIS website or BIS CARE app.
| Component | What to look for | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Solar modules | BIS registration number on the module label | Back of the module |
| Grid-tie or hybrid inverter | BIS registration for the inverter model | Inverter nameplate |
| Lithium-ion battery | BIS registration for the cells/battery | Battery label |
| Cables, switchgear | ISI mark or relevant certification | Product packaging |
We do not list Indian Standard numbers here because they are revised and renumbered; the BIS website shows the current standard for each registration.
Other technical requirements for scheme systems
The scheme's technical specifications cover items such as minimum module efficiency, inverter standards, mounting structure material and corrosion protection, earthing, surge protection and cabling. Registered vendors are expected to follow them. You do not need to check every specification, but you should ask:
- Is the structure hot-dip galvanised steel or aluminium, and how high is it above the roof?
- Is there earthing for the structure and the inverter, with separate pits as specified?
- Are DC and AC protection devices (fuses, isolators, surge protection) included?
- Is the cable UV-resistant and properly routed in conduit?
Worked example: the cheap non-DCR quote (illustrative)
A household gets two quotes for 3 kW:
- Vendor A: DCR modules, ₹1,80,000 incl. GST.
- Vendor B: "Tier-1 imported mono PERC" modules, ₹1,45,000 incl. GST, saying "subsidy will come".
With Vendor A, net cost after ₹78,000 CFA = ₹1,02,000. With Vendor B, the modules are not DCR, so the CFA is not available; net cost = ₹1,45,000. The apparently cheaper quote ends up ₹43,000 more expensive. This is one of the most common mistakes; see rooftop solar mistakes and official sources.
Mistakes to avoid
- Accepting "ALMM approved" as if it meant DCR.
- Not getting the DCR certificate with your serial numbers.
- Allowing substitution of a different module model on installation day without a revised quotation.
- Ignoring the inverter: a cheap, unregistered inverter is a frequent cause of early failures. See solar warranty claims.
Back to the pillar guide: rooftop solar cost and payback. Related: PM Surya Ghar subsidy explained, solar panel and inverter types.
Frequently asked questions
Are DCR modules lower quality than imported ones?
Not as a rule. DCR is about where cells and modules are made, not quality. Quality depends on the manufacturer and model; check BIS registration and the warranty.
Can I mix DCR and non-DCR modules?
For a subsidised system, all modules counted for CFA should be DCR. Mixing complicates inspection and the subsidy claim.
Does DCR apply to the inverter?
The DCR condition in the scheme is for solar cells and modules. Inverters must meet the technical standards and BIS requirements.
Where do I find the current ALMM list?
On MNRE's website under the ALMM section, which publishes the enlisted manufacturers and models with dates.
Official sources
- Ministry of New and Renewable Energy — ALMM orders and lists, DCR conditions
- Bureau of Indian Standards — registration search and product standards
- PM Surya Ghar national portal — technical specifications and vendor list
