India’s remarkable achievement of reaching 100 GW in domestic solar manufacturing capacity marks a profound turning point in the country’s renewable energy journey and reinforces the progressive vision of a self-reliant, sustainable and innovative Atmanirbhar Bharat. What started as a modest 2.3 GW manufacturing capacity in 2014 has, through a robust combination of intelligent policy, focused government initiatives and visionary leadership, transformed into an expansive 100 GW capacity in 2025. This surge represents a historic milestone which places India firmly on track to become one of the world's most influential players in the global renewable energy sector.

This transformation is a direct reflection of the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose unwavering focus on clean energy, innovation, and self-reliance in key strategic sectors has acted as a catalyst for this rapid advancement. The Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Mr. Pralhad Joshi, emphasised that initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for high-efficiency solar modules played a decisive role in driving large-scale investments and technological development across domestic solar manufacturing units.

Building a Robust and Self-Reliant Solar Ecosystem

The growth of India’s domestic solar equipment manufacturing capacity is more than just a numerical achievement. It represents the construction of a comprehensive and robust ecosystem, which includes manufacturing of solar cells, modules, frames, and auxiliary equipment. Experts believe that this self-reliant solar manufacturing ecosystem will lay the foundation for India’s long-term energy security, reduce reliance on imports, and help control fluctuating global supply chain risks.

According to Mr. Santosh Kamath, Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal, this capacity surge not only supports domestic demand but positions India as a potential exporter of solar products in the global market. He also highlighted that the Rs. 24,000 crore (US$ 2.74 billion) PLI scheme, along with the government’s mandatory local sourcing policies for projects like PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, created a favourable economic environment that encouraged local investors to expand large-scale facilities within the country.

The benefits of the PLI scheme are evident in the establishment of new module production lines, advanced cell manufacturing units, and increased extended supply chain capacities including solar glass and ethylene vinyl acetate (used for encapsulating solar cells). With domestic firms now operating across the full lifecycle of solar value chains, India has improved backward integration, ensuring that the country can reduce dependence on imported raw materials and components.

Atmanirbhar Bharat and Renewable Leadership

The achievement of 100 GW solar manufacturing capacity is recognised as a crucial step in fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). In addition to strengthening India’s energy independence, this success is enabling the country to adopt a more resilient industrial strategy, attract technology investments and facilitate renewable infrastructure expansion in rural and urban regions alike.

Mr. Somesh Kumar, Partner at EY India, applauded the government’s bold vision and strategic policy framework. He believes that the current momentum and favourable policies can help India exceed its 2030 target of 500 GW of non-fossil capacity well ahead of schedule. He also noted that Indian manufacturers now have the opportunity to develop high-efficiency modules and compete in global markets, especially as demand for solar technology rises in emerging economies across Africa, Southeast Asia and Latin America.

By building a strong solar ecosystem, India is effectively redefining its role in the global energy transition, moving from a technology importer to a technology exporter. This positioning gives India the ability to shape global renewable energy standards, influence sustainable development policies, and strengthen economic ties with developing nations seeking clean energy solutions.

Focus on R&D, Skilled Manpower and Supply Chain

Although the current level of progress is impressive, industry experts recognise the necessity of continued innovation and stronger research and development (R&D) investment. Developing next-generation solar technologies, such as bifacial modules, perovskite cells, hybrid PV-thermal systems and recyclable photovoltaic materials, will be essential if India wants to remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven market.

Strengthening raw material supply chains is another important goal. As module and cell production scales up, the demand for solar glass, polysilicon, aluminium frames, junction boxes and specialized encapsulants is expected to surge dramatically. India must enhance its domestic raw material industries to mitigate risks associated with geopolitical disruptions and price volatility in international markets.

Moreover, the development of skilled manpower is considered a key pillar for sustaining the clean energy momentum. The solar industry demands specialists in engineering, manufacturing, testing, quality control, maintenance and grid integration. Investment in vocational training, upskilling programmes and industry-academia partnerships will empower India’s workforce and ensure that the country retains its competitive edge while scaling up its manufacturing capacities.

A Positive Outlook for Renewable Energy Exports

In the coming years, India’s 100 GW solar manufacturing capacity is expected to meet more than just the country’s own domestic demand. Many analysts believe that India is likely to play a major role as a reliable exporter of solar modules and related products, particularly to countries interested in low-cost, high-efficiency and scalable renewable technology solutions. The newly established domestic manufacturing capacity will give Indian companies the economies of scale required to meet large orders while ensuring price competitiveness.

Furthermore, the geopolitical shift towards diversified renewable supply chains gives India a favourable environment for securing new export partnerships. Countries in Middle East, Africa and Asia-Pacific are actively exploring ways to diversify their solar supply sources to reduce dependency on a single supplier. Indian companies, supported by a strong government policy framework, are in a strong position to offer competitive solutions which meet international performance and sustainability standards.

Pathway to 500 GW Non-Fossil Capacity by 2030

Achieving this 100 GW manufacturing milestone is a strong indicator that India is on the right track towards its 2030 target of 500 GW non-fossil capacity. With aggressive expansion in infrastructure, effective policies, and strong stakeholder collaboration between the government and private sector, India is fostering a culture of innovation in renewable energy.
Additionally, domestic banks and financing institutions have begun to prioritise green financing, making it easier for companies to expand their production facilities and implement large-scale integrated solar manufacturing projects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, India’s achievement of 100 GW solar manufacturing capacity is a landmark in the nation’s broader journey towards a self-reliant and sustainable energy future. The milestone validates how bold policy initiatives, such as the Production Linked Incentive scheme, and consistent political leadership can catalyse large-scale industrial change and invigorate domestic manufacturing across strategic sectors.
Driven by a vibrant policy ecosystem, robust investment in solar R&D, and growing expertise in high-efficiency technologies, India is now emerging as a global leader in renewable manufacturing.
With continued focus on expanding export markets, reinforcing raw material supply chains, and developing skilled manpower, India is poised not only to meet — but also to exceed — its ambitious 2030 clean energy goals, while inspiring other developing nations that aspire to build their own sustainable and self-reliant energy ecosystems.

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