???? India’s Solar Manufacturing Boom in 2025: 44 GW Module Capacity Added Published 2025-10-01 23:34:00 By Anupam Nath India’s solar sector is witnessing a historic transformation. According to the Mercom India Research Report (State of Solar PV Manufacturing in India 1H 2025), the country added an impressive 44.2 GW of solar module capacity and 7.5 GW of solar cell capacity in the first half of 2025. This achievement reflects not just India’s commitment to renewable energy but also its ambitious journey towards achieving the 2030 solar targets.---???? Massive Growth in Manufacturing CapacityThe surge in manufacturing is driven by the robust 186 GW pipeline of large-scale solar projects scheduled between 2025 and 2027. States like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh have emerged as the leading hubs for solar module production. Gujarat alone accounted for nearly 41.6% of module production and also led in solar cell production with over 47% capacity share.This regional dominance demonstrates how state-level policies, incentives, and infrastructure readiness are playing a crucial role in India’s clean energy growth story.---???? ALMM-II Rules and Industry ChallengesOne of the most significant developments has been the implementation of ALMM-II (Approved List of Models and Manufacturers – II). Under this rule, every solar module must now be built using ALMM-compliant cells.For larger players, this is an opportunity to expand into captive cell manufacturing or form partnerships with existing cell producers. However, smaller manufacturers with less than 500 MW capacity face major hurdles, as they lack the scale and technology to remain competitive.Experts warn that while demand is rising, supply shortages—especially for DCR (Domestic Content Requirement) modules—are expected until more domestic cell manufacturing capacity comes online.---???? Technology Trends Shaping the FutureIn terms of technology, TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) modules dominated capacity additions in 1H 2025, accounting for over 90%. Monocrystalline modules represented about 7%, and for the first time, Heterojunction (HJT) modules entered the Indian market with 3% capacity share.By June 2025, 91.5 GW of module capacity and 13.1 GW of cell capacity were ALMM-certified. While these numbers reflect growth, analysts note that operational utilization often remains 30-40% lower due to outdated technologies in smaller facilities.---???? Outlook for 2026 and BeyondWith India’s solar cell demand expected to spike by mid-2026, industry experts foresee a temporary supply crunch until new lines stabilize. Several large facilities are scheduled to come online in 2026, including in Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Karnataka.Despite short-term challenges, India’s solar manufacturing sector is on a strong trajectory. The push for domestic manufacturing, advanced technologies, and export opportunities will define the next phase of growth.If this momentum continues, India is not just on track to meet but potentially exceed its 2030 renewable energy goals, making it one of the global leaders in solar energy manufacturing.
