India’s domestic solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing is rapidly scaling up, with solar module production capacity reaching 18.6 GW and solar cell capacity nearing 10 GW, according to the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE).
PLI Scheme Spurs Growth in Integrated Solar Manufacturing
As of June 30, 2025, data from manufacturers and the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) shows the PLI scheme has helped establish:
*18.5 GW of solar module capacity
*9.7 GW of solar cell capacity
*2.2 GW of ingot-wafer capacity
This reflects a significant step toward building an end-to-end solar PV manufacturing ecosystem in the country.
Phased Implementation Underway
The minister noted that timelines for operationalising awarded capacities depend on several factors, including land acquisition, financial closure, equipment procurement, and installation timelines.
Leading Companies Driving First and Second Tranches
Under the first tranche of the PLI scheme, Letters of Award have been issued to:
*Shirdi Sai Electricals
*Reliance Industries
*Adani New Industries
Together, they are developing 8.737 GW of fully integrated solar PV module manufacturing units. In the second tranche, 11 successful bidders have secured approvals to establish 39.6 GW of fully or partially integrated solar PV manufacturing facilities across India.
National Capacity Expands, Eyes 42 GW by 2026
India’s total installed solar cell manufacturing capacity currently stands at 26.35 GW, with plans to expand this to approximately 42 GW by June 1, 2026, the MNRE confirmed. This aggressive scale-up supports India’s broader clean energy transition and aims to make the country a global manufacturing hub for solar technologies.
Reducing Import Dependence
The PLI scheme has already started to reduce India’s reliance on imported solar modules. According to Commerce Ministry data, India’s solar module imports declined from USD 3.36 billion in FY2022 to USD 2.15 billion in FY2025—a clear indicator of rising domestic capability.
Policy Measures Backing Local Manufacturing
To further support Indian manufacturers, the government has taken several decisive steps. Mandated use of domestically manufactured modules for schemes such as:
*CPSU Scheme Phase-II
*PM-KUSUM Components B & C
*PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana
*Imposed Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on imported solar PV cells and modules
*Exempted customs duties on select inputs used by domestic solar manufacturers
PLI Guidelines and Future Outlook
The government notified the PLI scheme for high-efficiency solar PV modules on April 21, 2021. It is a key initiative to boost domestic manufacturing, create jobs, and ensure energy security. As reported by knnindia.co.in, with strong industry response, rising capacity, and sustained policy support, India is firmly on track to become a self-reliant solar manufacturing powerhouse. This will reduce import dependency while accelerating its clean energy goals.
