India has reached a landmark achievement in renewable energy, with its solar equipment manufacturing capacity climbing from just 2.3 GW in 2014 to an impressive 100 GW in 2025. Experts describe this as a “historic milestone” that highlights the country’s rapid progress toward energy independence.
Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, credited this success to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and policies such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for high-efficiency solar modules. The program, valued at $2.74 billion, has been instrumental in strengthening domestic manufacturing while reducing dependence on imports. It also requires local sourcing of solar cells and modules for government-led initiatives like PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
Industry experts emphasize that this expansion is building a resilient solar ecosystem, paving the way for better backward integration and preparing the supply chain for critical components such as solar glass and ethylene vinyl acetate. Santosh Kamath, Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal, noted that India’s manufacturing growth will not only meet domestic needs but also help the country become an exporter in select global markets.
Somesh Kumar, Partner at EY India, praised the government’s “bold vision and policy,” highlighting that these strategies could allow India to surpass its 2030 target of 500 GW in non-fossil fuel capacity. He believes that strong policy support, combined with industry momentum, positions India to outpace its clean energy goals.
To sustain progress, experts recommend expanding research and development for advanced solar technologies, enhancing backward integration, and opening new export markets. Greater investments in skilled manpower are also seen as vital for maintaining momentum. Economies of scale from the expanded capacity will further strengthen cost competitiveness and global positioning.
This achievement marks a turning point in India’s renewable energy journey. By fostering a self-reliant solar manufacturing ecosystem and scaling up production, India is not only advancing its Atmanirbhar Bharat vision but also positioning itself as a global leader in clean energy manufacturing.
