India hits 100 GW solar manufacturing milestone, boosting self-reliance

India's domestic solar equipment manufacturing capacity has seen a remarkable increase, growing from 2.3 Gigawatt (GW) in 2014 to 100 GW in 2025, a growth that experts are calling a "historic milestone". The Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Mr. Pralhad Joshi, attributed this achievement to Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi's leadership and initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for high-efficiency solar modules. This success is helping India build a "robust, self-reliant solar manufacturing ecosystem". It is strengthening its path towards an 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India). According to experts, this growth will likely lead to a strong renewable energy ecosystem, improve backward integration, and prepare the supply chain for components like solar glass and ethylene vinyl acetate. Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal, Mr. Santosh Kamath, noted that this surge will not only cater to domestic demand but also position India as an exporter in some markets. The growth is supported by initiatives like the Rs. 24,000 crore (US$ 2.74 billion) PLI Scheme and the mandatory local sourcing of solar cells and modules for government projects such as PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
This rapid growth in solar manufacturing is a testament to the effectiveness of a "bold vision and policy," as stated by a Partner at EY India, Mr. Somesh Kumar. He believes that these current trends and policies could enable India to surpass its 2030 target of 500 GW of non-fossil capacity. To maintain this momentum, experts suggest boosting research and development (R&D) for high-efficiency modules, expanding export markets, and reinforcing the raw material supply chain. The industry's success is creating a self-reliant solar ecosystem and positioning India as a global leader in renewable manufacturing. Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal, Mr. Santosh Kamath, also pointed out that while India still needs to enhance R&D and backward integration to become more self-reliant, the economies of scale from the increased capacity will assist in achieving these goals. Investing in skilled manpower is also seen as crucial for sustaining the clean energy momentum.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.