India's Leap Towards Solar Dominance

Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, has announced a ambitious plan to expand India's solar photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturing capacity from 80 gigawatts (GW) to 125 GW by 2030. This significant growth underscores India's commitment to renewable energy and its goal to become a global leader in solar power production.

File photo- Pralhad Joshi

Boosting Solar Cell Manufacturing

Alongside the expansion of PV module capacity, India's solar cell manufacturing is also set to increase from 25 GW to 40 GW. This development was highlighted during the inauguration of a new 5.4 GW solar cell manufacturing facility by Waaree Energies Limited in Gujarat’s Degam.

From Import Dependency to Self-Sufficiency

Reflecting on India's journey, Joshi noted the country's transition from importing solar PV modules, mainly from China, to establishing a robust local manufacturing ecosystem. Initiatives like the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme have been pivotal in this transformation.

India's Green Energy Ambitions

With India now the third-largest producer of renewable energy, Joshi expressed confidence in achieving the 500 GW renewable energy capacity target by 2030. The country is also making strides in green ammonia and hydrogen production, further cementing its position in the global green energy sector.

A Vision for the Future

Joshi envisions India not just meeting its energy demands domestically but also becoming a key player in the global renewable energy market. By 2032, India's energy demand is expected to double, with electricity reaching 18,100 villages, showcasing the nation's rapid progress towards sustainable energy.