Short answer: use DCR panels for any home claiming the PM Surya Ghar subsidy. Use non-DCR panels for commercial and industrial projects that don't claim a subsidy, where they usually cost less per watt.
What DCR means
DCR stands for Domestic Content Requirement. A DCR panel is made in India using solar cells that are also made in India. Government-subsidised schemes, including PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana for homes, require DCR panels so that public money supports Indian manufacturing.
A non-DCR panel may be assembled in India but uses imported cells. It can be just as good technically, but it does not qualify for the subsidy.
What changed in June 2026
MNRE keeps an Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM). List-I covers solar modules; List-II covers solar cells. From 1 June 2026, modules used in government-backed projects, including PM Surya Ghar, must use cells from manufacturers on ALMM List-II. In practice this tightens the DCR rule: both the panel and its cells must come from approved Indian makers. Industry estimates put the added cost at roughly ₹3,000 per kW, small compared with the ₹78,000 subsidy on a 3 kW home.
Side by side
| DCR | Non-DCR | |
|---|---|---|
| Cells | Made in India (ALMM List-II) | Imported |
| PM Surya Ghar subsidy | Eligible | Not eligible |
| Price per watt | Higher | Lower |
| Paperwork | DCR documentation per serial number | Standard invoice and datasheet |
| Best for | Homes claiming the subsidy | Factories, warehouses, shops without subsidy |
How to make sure the panels qualify
- Buy from an authorised channel and ask for the manufacturer's DCR documentation covering the module serial numbers. The DISCOM inspection and portal checks rely on it.
- Check that the module model is on the current ALMM list.
- Keep the invoice, DCR documents and serial numbers together for the subsidy claim.
Polycab options
Polycab makes both versions. The N-type TOPCon bifacial range runs from 580 to 605 Wp with efficiency up to 23.42% and a 12-year product, 30-year power warranty. The Mono PERC range runs from 525 to 560 Wp, is on MNRE's ALMM list, and carries a 10-year product, 25-year power warranty. Tell us whether you need DCR or non-DCR and the quantity, and we'll confirm stock.
Which to choose
- PM Surya Ghar home: DCR, no exceptions.
- Commercial or industrial roof, no subsidy: non-DCR usually gives a lower project cost.
- Government building or subsidised scheme: check the tender; most require DCR.
Scheme rules and DISCOM procedures change. Check the latest guidelines on the PM Surya Ghar portal and with your DISCOM before you install. This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice.
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GSTIN 10AFZFS4184F1ZN
GSTIN 19AFZFS4184F1Z5