India's largest Solar Cell Gigafactory inaugurated in Gujarat

India’s largest solar cell manufacturing gigafactory, a state-of-the-art 5.4 GW facility by Waaree Energies, has been inaugurated in Chikhali, Gujarat. Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi presided over the inauguration, marking a significant milestone in the country's renewable energy ambitions. The sprawling facility, spread across 150 acres with a built-up area of 101 acres, aims to bolster India's domestic solar supply chain and reduce reliance on imports. “As India's largest state-of-the-art solar cell production plant, this landmark achievement is a decisive step towards strengthening the domestic solar supply chain and reducing dependence on imports," the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy stated.
A Major Step Towards Energy Independence
Union Minister Joshi emphasized that the facility exemplifies the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and India's emergence as a key player in the global renewable energy landscape. "The launch of one of the largest solar cell facilities embodies the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat and stands as a tribute to India’s growing prowess in the global renewable energy sector. Waaree’s commitment to indigenous manufacturing aligns perfectly with our national vision of establishing India as a global manufacturing hub for clean energy technologies," he said.
Highlighting India’s impressive growth in solar energy, Joshi noted that the country’s installed solar power capacity has surged from 2.82 GW in 2014 to 104 GW in 2024, representing a remarkable 3,580% increase. Moreover, while solar cell and wafer production was non-existent in India a decade ago, the nation now boasts a capacity of 25 GW for solar cells and 2 GW for wafers.
Government’s Push for Indigenous Manufacturing
To further strengthen domestic solar manufacturing, the government has mandated that all solar PV modules used in projects must source their solar cells from the ALMM (Approved List of Models and Manufacturers) List-II starting from June 1, 2026. This move is expected to drive significant growth in local production capacities.
Looking ahead, Joshi expressed confidence that India’s solar module production capacity will soar to 150 GW by 2030, with solar cell capacity reaching 100 GW and wafer production expanding to 40 GW.
Industry Leaders Welcome the Initiative
Hitesh Doshi, Chairman and Managing Director of Waaree Energies Ltd., hailed the launch of the gigafactory as a defining moment for India's renewable energy sector. “Today, with the launch of our 5.4 GW solar cell gigafactory in Chikhali, Waaree is laying the foundational cornerstone of India’s energy independence and technological renaissance,” he said. The launch event was attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and other senior government officials.

(State Correspondent)