Over the last decade, India’s green energy story has turned into one of the most inspiring industrial transformations in the country. A little over ten years ago, solar module manufacturing here was modest, small capacities, limited technology adoption, and a market that was still finding its feet. But the government’s long-term vision, combined with a steady stream of supportive policies, set the wheels in motion.
One of the most important turning points came in 2010 with the launch of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission. It began with a target of 20 GW of solar capacity, which was later scaled up to a much more ambitious 100 GW by 2022. This shift sent a clear message to the industry: India was serious about solar. The announcement sparked a surge in investments, encouraged homegrown innovation, and pushed companies to build skills and infrastructure at scale.
The early years weren’t without challenges. Manufacturing was fragmented, and the cost competitiveness of imported modules was a big hurdle. But India kept at it. Continuous policy pushes, a growing appetite for clean energy, and public–private partnerships created a stronger foundation. The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for solar modules gave things an extra boost by encouraging high-efficiency manufacturing and promoting integrated supply chains within the country.
Evolution: From Humble Beginnings to Self-Reliance
To understand how far India has come, it helps to look back at 2014. At that time, the country’s solar PV module manufacturing capacity under the Approved List of Models & Manufacturers (ALMM) stood at just 2.3 GW. It was a small fraction of what the market needed, and India was heavily dependent on imports.
The momentum began to build in January 2019 when the ALMM Order was introduced. By March 2021, the first official list of approved manufacturers was out, covering around 8.2 GW of capacity and featuring only 21 players. That list, though small, created a formal structure that encouraged manufacturers to step up their game.
From there, growth accelerated rapidly. Backed by the PLI scheme, import restrictions on certain modules, and clear government targets, India’s solar PV manufacturing capacity didn’t just grow it exploded. In just four years, it jumped more than twelvefold. Today, the country has crossed the 100 GW mark, with 100 manufacturers running 123 production units. This is not just a number, it’s the sign of an industry that has come of age.
The Present: A Proud Moment in India’s Solar Story
Reaching 100 GW is a landmark achievement. It shows how far India has come in building industrial capacity, achieving energy self-reliance, and setting global benchmarks in clean energy.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi called it a “historic milestone” that reflects India’s commitment to the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and its larger goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity by 2030. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described it as “another milestone towards self-reliance,” underscoring the role of domestic manufacturing in strengthening India’s green energy future.
What’s equally important is the diversity of companies driving this growth. Established giants and agile new entrants are both making their mark. Many are adopting high-efficiency technologies, setting up vertically integrated manufacturing lines, and securing India’s place in the global solar value chain. This is no longer just about meeting domestic demand—it’s about becoming a global hub for solar manufacturing.
Conclusion
India’s solar manufacturing journey is a clear example of what long-term vision, consistent policy, and collective effort can achieve. From a modest 2.3 GW to an impressive 100 GW, the growth has been powered by determination and strategic planning.
This milestone under the ALMM is proof that India can make big, rapid changes when industry, government, and innovation work together. It’s not just about adding more megawatts to the grid. It’s about energy security, economic opportunity, and creating a cleaner, more sustainable tomorrow for the generations to come.
Disclaimer
This blog is purely for educational purposes and should not be considered investment advice. Please do your own research or consult a registered financial advisor before making any investment decisions.