Solar firms move Karnataka HC over “unreasonable” domestic-cell mandate

Several solar energy companies have filed a petition with the Karnataka High Court to contest recent government mandates. The legal challenge targets directives from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy regarding the mandatory use of domestic solar cells. Specifically, the firms are opposing the enforcement of the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) List-II for projects scheduled to begin operations after June 1, 2026. Industry stakeholders argue that these requirements are unreasonable and could negatively impact the feasibility of upcoming renewable energy developments. The court will now examine whether these procurement restrictions impose an undue burden on the sector.

This legal challenge highlights the ongoing tension between domestic manufacturing protectionism and the operational cost concerns of renewable energy developers.