Waaree Energies Ltd., a solar module manufacturer, announced a strategic overhaul of its global supply chain to sidestep steep U.S. import tariffs while continuing to serve its largest export market. The United States currently accounts for nearly 60% of Waaree’s total orders.
Reworking the Supply Chain to Sustain U.S. Business
To maintain its foothold in the world’s second-largest solar market, Waaree is now sourcing solar cells from countries with lower export tariffs to the U.S. Waaree’s manufacturing facilities then assemble these cells into modules.
“We continue to service our U.S. orders,” said Amit Paithankar, Chief Executive Officer of Waaree Energies. He explained that the company designed its supply chain strategy around a 2012 U.S. customs ruling, which classifies solar panels by the origin of their cells rather than where the modules are assembled. According to Paithankar, “If you configure your supply chain well, you can effectively sidestep the high tariffs currently imposed on Indian goods.”
Expanding Manufacturing Footprint in the U.S.
Despite trade headwinds, Waaree remains committed to the U.S. market. The company’s order book stood at 24 gigawatts as of September, valued at approximately ₹47,000 crore ($5.3 billion). To meet growing demand, Waaree plans to manufacture panels both in India and at its expanding U.S. facilities.
Waaree is currently doubling its production capacity at its Houston module plant to 3.2 gigawatts within the next six months. It has also added around 1 gigawatt of new panel-making capacity through the acquisition of U.S. assets from Meyer Burger Technology AG.
So far, Waaree has invested nearly $150 million in the U.S. and intends to expand this eight-fold, potentially adding cell manufacturing and battery storage systems to its portfolio, Paithankar revealed.
Betting on U.S. Energy Transformation
Waaree continues to commit to the U.S., drawing on the country’s long-term energy fundamentals. Paithankar emphasized that the AI boom, rapid electrification of transport, and the “reshoring” of manufacturing are all driving unprecedented demand for power across America. “Renewables remain the most cost-effective and scalable solution,” he said. “Our strategy is aligned with this energy transformation, and we are committed to being part of the U.S. clean energy future.”
A Strategic Move for Global Resilience
By reconfiguring its global supply chain and expanding its manufacturing footprint in the U.S., Waaree Energies is positioning itself to weather geopolitical uncertainties while reinforcing its role as a key player in the global solar energy landscape. As reported by business-standard.com, the company’s adaptive strategy underscores its ability to balance regulatory challenges with market opportunities, ensuring sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving clean energy economy.
