India Expands Local Solar Cell Manufacturing to Boost Clean Energy Independence

New Delhi, Dec 10 (KNN) In a significant step toward self-reliance in clean energy, India has mandated that, starting June 2026, all solar photovoltaic (PV) modules used in projects must be manufactured from solar cells produced locally by government-approved companies.

This move, aimed at reducing dependency on imports from leading supplier China, aligns with India’s broader push for energy security and economic self-sufficiency.

The directive extends an existing rule that requires government projects to use locally-made PV modules from approved domestic manufacturers.

By incorporating solar cells into the regulation, the government seeks to enhance India's domestic manufacturing capabilities and reduce reliance on imported components.

India's renewable energy goals are ambitious, with plans to boost its non-fossil fuel capacity from 156 GW to 500 GW by 2030.

Despite having a robust solar PV module production capacity of approximately 80 GW, the country’s solar cell production lags significantly, standing at just over 7 GW.

As a result, Indian manufacturers often rely on imported cells, primarily from China, to meet demand.

The renewable energy ministry has announced plans to issue a list of approved cell manufacturers, as domestic production capacity is expected to grow substantially in the coming year.

Several Indian companies are already making significant investments in solar cell manufacturing facilities.

Tata Power recently inaugurated a 4.3 GW solar cell manufacturing plant in southern India. Reliance Industries is on track to complete the first phase of its 20 GW integrated solar cell and module production facility in Gujarat by year-end. The Adani Group already operates a 4 GW cell and module manufacturing plant in the state.

These developments underscore India’s commitment to strengthening its domestic solar manufacturing ecosystem, a critical component of achieving its renewable energy ambitions.

By fostering local production, the government aims to create jobs, reduce import dependency, and position India as a global leader in solar technology.

This regulatory shift represents a milestone in India’s clean energy journey and signals a bold step toward energy sovereignty.

(KNN Bureau)