Solar energy is becoming more popular around the world, especially in India. With rising electricity costs and growing environmental awareness, more people and businesses are choosing solar power. If you’re thinking about going solar in India, you may have heard the term DCR Solar Panel.

But what exactly is a DCR solar panel? Why is it important? And should you choose one over a regular (non-DCR) panel?

In this blog, we will explain everything you need to know about DCR solar panels in a very simple and clear way. We’ll look at what DCR means, how it is different from non-DCR panels, the benefits, the limitations, and how to identify and buy the right panel for your needs.

Let’s get started!

Understanding DCR Solar Panels

What Does DCR Mean?

DCR stands for Domestic Content Requirement. This is a rule created by the Government of India to support the local solar industry. It means that some solar panels must be made using parts that are manufactured in India.

In simple terms, a DCR Solar Panel is a solar panel that uses both:

• Solar cells made in India, and

• Solar modules assembled in India

The idea behind DCR is to promote "Make in India", create jobs, and reduce India’s dependence on imported solar products.

The Indian government has made it mandatory to use DCR panels in several government-supported solar programs like the PM-KUSUM Scheme and residential rooftop solar projects under the MNRE (Ministry of New and Renewable Energy).

What Makes a Solar Panel DCR-Compliant?

For a solar panel to be called “DCR-compliant,” both the solar cells and the modules must be manufactured in India.

Here are the main requirements:

• Solar cells must be made in India

• Solar modules (panels) must be assembled in India using Indian cells

• The panel must be approved by the MNRE

• It should be listed under the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM)

Only panels that meet these requirements can be used in projects where DCR is mandatory.

DCR vs Non-DCR Solar Panels

Key Differences

The major difference between DCR and non-DCR panels lies in where the components are made.

Here are the key differences:

• DCR Solar Panels use both cells and modules made in India.

• Non-DCR Solar Panels may use imported cells or fully imported panels.

• DCR Panels are required for certain government subsidy schemes.

• Non-DCR Panels may not qualify for such subsidies.

• DCR Panels support Indian manufacturing and job creation.

• Non-DCR Panels may offer more variety and lower prices.

Comparison Table: DCR vs Non-DCR

Benefits of Using DCR Solar Panels

Government Subsidies

One of the biggest advantages of choosing DCR panels is that they are eligible for government subsidies. For example, under the PM-KUSUM scheme and rooftop solar subsidy programs, only DCR-compliant panels are accepted.

This can significantly reduce your overall installation cost. In some cases, subsidies can cover up to 40% of the cost. So even if DCR panels are a bit more expensive, the subsidies make them a smart investment.

Support for Indian Manufacturers

By choosing DCR panels, you’re supporting Indian solar companies, helping them grow and compete globally. This creates local jobs, builds economic strength, and reduces the need to depend on other countries for critical energy products.

It’s a way to contribute to national growth while also benefiting from solar energy.

Long-term Reliability

DCR panels are generally required to meet MNRE quality standards and must be BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) certified. This ensures they are reliable and suitable for Indian conditions like high heat and dust.

Also, since these panels are made in India, after-sales service and support is usually better and quicker.

Challenges & Limitations of DCR Panels

Higher Costs

One of the main drawbacks of DCR panels is their slightly higher cost compared to imported panels.

Because India is still building its solar manufacturing capabilities, the cost of production is higher. This makes DCR panels more expensive, especially for large-scale or commercial projects.

However, government subsidies help balance out this cost for residential users.

Limited Variety and Innovation

Most advanced solar technologies, such as bifacial panels, TOPCon, and N-Type cells, are still developed and produced more in other countries like China, the US, and Europe.

Indian manufacturers are catching up, but DCR panels currently offer fewer options in terms of cutting-edge features.

So if you're looking for the latest technology at a lower price, non-DCR panels might give you more choices.

Where Are DCR Panels Mandatory?

Government Projects and Schemes

The Indian government has made DCR panels mandatory for several national and state-level schemes. Some of these include:

• PM-KUSUM Scheme (for solar pumps and farmers)

• Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar Program (especially for residential homes)

• Solar Power Projects with VGF (Viability Gap Funding)

• Some public sector undertakings (PSUs) and state government solar projects

These programs are designed to encourage Indian-made solar panels and reduce reliance on imports.

Private Sector Use Cases

While the private sector is not required to use DCR panels, many homeowners, housing societies, and small businesses voluntarily choose them to:

• Access government subsidies

• Support Indian products

• Get better service support

However, large private companies often choose non-DCR panels for cost efficiency or to get the latest global technologies.

How to Identify and Buy DCR Solar Panels

Look for MNRE Approved List

Before buying a DCR panel, make sure it is listed in the MNRE’s Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM).

You can find the updated list on the MNRE website. Only those listed are eligible for government programs.

Check Product Labeling

Each DCR solar panel should clearly mention:

• Name of the manufacturer

• Country of origin of the solar cells and modules

• Certification like BIS, IEC, and MNRE approval

Ask your installer to provide this information before making any payment.

Trusted Indian Manufacturers

Here are some well-known Indian solar manufacturers who make DCR-compliant panels:

• Tata Power Solar

• Vikram Solar

• Waaree Energies

• Adani Solar

• Goldi Solar

• RenewSys India

• Saatvik Green Energy

Buying from these brands ensures good quality, warranty, and support.

Future of DCR Solar Panels in India

Government Push for Self-Reliance

India is aiming to become more self-reliant in energy. The government is:

• Providing Production Linked Incentives (PLI) for solar manufacturers

• Setting up solar parks and manufacturing hubs

• Making plans to increase solar exports

This will help improve the quality and reduce the cost of DCR solar panels in the future.

Innovations in Indian Solar Manufacturing

Indian companies are now investing in advanced technologies like:

• N-Type TOPCon Cells

• Bifacial Solar Panels

• High-efficiency Mono PERC Cells

With these changes, DCR panels in the future will be more efficient and more affordable, offering better value to Indian consumers.

Conclusion

DCR solar panels play a very important role in India’s journey towards clean and self-reliant energy. While they may cost slightly more than non-DCR panels, they offer many benefits like:

• Government subsidies

• Support for Indian industries

• Good reliability and service

If you are planning to install solar panels on your rooftop and want to avail government support, choosing DCR solar panels is the right move.

Make sure to always check for MNRE approval, certifications, and trusted brands before making a decision.