Do I need DCR solar panels for PM Surya Ghar subsidy?

Yes. Where a central government subsidy applies, including PM Surya Ghar for homes, MNRE requires DCR solar modules — modules made in India using solar cells also made in India.

Can I use non-DCR panels for my factory or office?

Yes, where no central subsidy or scheme requires DCR — for example a commercial or industrial plant funded by the business itself. Other rules such as ALMM can still apply, so check your project category.

Is a module on the ALMM list automatically DCR?

No. ALMM lists approved module models and manufacturers; DCR is about where the cells and modules are made. A module can be on the ALMM list without meeting DCR.

Does NCS supply both DCR and non-DCR?

Yes. We supply DCR and non-DCR solar kits from 3 kW to 10 kW and modules for both requirements. Tell us your project type and we match the modules to its rules.

Resource Centre · Solar modules

DCR vs Non-DCR Solar Modules: Which Do You Need?

By Deepak Sharma, NCS Solar, LucknowPublished 24 September 2026

Short answer: DCR (Domestic Content Requirement) modules are made in India using Indian-made solar cells. They are mandatory wherever a central government subsidy applies — PM Surya Ghar for homes, PM-KUSUM and similar schemes. Non-DCR modules may use imported cells and suit projects without such a subsidy, such as a business funding its own plant.

What DCR means

DCR stands for Domestic Content Requirement. A DCR module has both its solar cells and the module itself manufactured in India. A non-DCR module may be assembled in India or abroad, but its cells can be imported.

	DCR module	Non-DCR module
Solar cells	Made in India	Can be imported
Module	Made in India	Made in India or imported
Central-subsidy schemes (e.g. PM Surya Ghar)	Required	Not eligible for the subsidy
Typical use	Subsidised homes, PM-KUSUM, government schemes	Self-funded commercial and industrial plants

When DCR is mandatory

MNRE has clarified that solar projects under its schemes that carry central financial assistance must use DCR modules. For homeowners, that means a PM Surya Ghar system must use DCR modules if you want the subsidy of up to ₹78,000 from the Centre (and, in Uttar Pradesh, the state top-up on top of it).

If your project has no central subsidy — for example a factory, warehouse or commercial building paying for its own plant — the DCR rule does not apply, and non-DCR modules are an option.

Where ALMM fits in

ALMM, the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers, is a separate MNRE list. List-I covers solar modules; List-II, for solar cells, came into force from 1 June 2026. Projects that fall under the ALMM order must use listed modules — and, as List-II applies, listed cells. ALMM tells you a model is approved; DCR tells you where it was made. A project can need one, both or neither, depending on its category.

ALMM rules and exemptions are revised from time to time, so we confirm the current position for each project before ordering.

How to choose

Home rooftop with PM Surya Ghar subsidy — DCR modules.
PM-KUSUM or another subsidised government scheme — DCR modules.
Self-funded commercial or industrial plant — DCR or non-DCR, depending on budget and any ALMM requirement for your category.
Not sure? Tell us the project type and we match the modules to its rules.

Sources · Last updated 24 September 2026

DCR and ALMM requirements change by MNRE order. Check the current notices before you buy.

DCR vs Non-DCR Solar Modules: Which Do You Need?

What DCR means

When DCR is mandatory

Where ALMM fits in

How to choose

DCR vs Non-DCR — Questions

Related

Ask About DCR or Non-DCR Modules