India’s 100 GW Solar Module Capacity — A Defining Moment in Clean Energy Leadership

India’s achievement of crossing 100 GW of solar PV module manufacturing capacity under the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) is more than just a statistical milestone — it is a defining chapter in the country’s clean energy transformation. From a modest 2.3 GW in 2014 to becoming a manufacturing powerhouse within a decade, this journey reflects bold policy interventions, visionary leadership, and the unwavering spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

From Aspiration to Leadership

The leap in solar manufacturing capacity has been anything but accidental. In 2014, India’s manufacturing sector in solar PV was limited, dependent largely on imports to meet the growing demand for solar installations. Recognizing the strategic importance of domestic capability, the government introduced a series of measures to nurture and expand this industry.

Among these, the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for High-Efficiency Solar Modules emerged as a game changer. By offering targeted financial incentives, the scheme attracted both established energy giants and agile new entrants to invest in high-tech, vertically integrated production facilities. These facilities not only assemble modules but also produce upstream components like cells, wafers, and even polysilicon in some cases, reducing vulnerability to global supply chain disruptions.

The ALMM Surge — From 8.2 GW to 100 GW

The Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM), which ensures quality standards and reliability of solar modules, has seen a meteoric rise. In 2021, the list featured 8.2 GW of capacity and just 21 manufacturers. Today, the ALMM proudly includes over 100 GW and more than 100 manufacturers, covering a spectrum from large conglomerates to specialized innovators.

This growth is not just a reflection of installed machinery — it signifies a robust, competitive ecosystem capable of meeting India’s domestic needs while actively seeking export opportunities in regions like Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Latin America.

A Strategic Shift in Energy Security

Crossing the 100 GW mark carries profound implications for India’s energy security. For years, India relied heavily on imports, particularly from China, for solar modules and cells. This dependence posed risks — from price volatility to geopolitical uncertainty.

Now, with a strong domestic base, India is reducing its import bill, creating jobs, and ensuring that its solar expansion is not held hostage by external shocks. This aligns perfectly with the nation’s 2030 target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil capacity and its commitment to net zero by 2070.

Capturing Global Market Opportunities

The global solar market is in flux, with many countries looking to diversify their supply sources. India’s emerging status as a trusted manufacturing hub positions it well to capture a slice of this growing export pie. The competitive cost structure, coupled with quality assurance under ALMM, makes Indian modules attractive for international buyers seeking reliable alternatives to traditional suppliers.

The Road Ahead — Sustaining the Momentum

While the 100 GW capacity achievement is monumental, the next phase will be even more challenging. To maintain leadership, India will need to focus on:

• Policy stability — Long-term clarity on incentives, trade measures, and quality standards will encourage sustained investment.
• R&D investment — Next-generation technologies like TOPCon, heterojunction (HJT), and perovskite solar cells will determine competitiveness in the future.
• Upstream integration — Expanding domestic manufacturing of wafers and polysilicon will further strengthen supply chain resilience.
• Skill development — Building a trained workforce to operate and innovate in advanced solar manufacturing.

More Than a Milestone — A Movement

This 100 GW marker is not the end of the journey — it is the beginning of India’s era as a solar manufacturing powerhouse. If nurtured wisely, this achievement could redefine the country’s role in the global clean energy economy, enabling it not only to meet its green energy goals but also to become a dependable partner in helping the world meet its climate commitments.

In the years ahead, the success story of India’s solar industry will be remembered not just for the gigawatts produced, but for how it turned ambition into reality — setting the sunlit stage for a cleaner, more self-reliant, and sustainable future.