Chikhali: Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi inaugurated a state-of-the-art 5.4 GW solar cell manufacturing facility of Waaree Energy in Chikhali, Gujarat, marking a significant milestone in India’s renewable energy journey. The event was graced by Union Minister of Jal Shakti, C.R. Patil, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel, and several senior ministers from the state government, including Energy and Petrochemicals Minister Kanubhai Desai, Minister of State for Home, Sports & Youth Affairs Harshbhai Sanghvi, Minister of State for Environment, Climate Change & Water Resources Mukeshbhai Patel, and P.P. Chaudhary.
As India’s largest solar cell production plant, this landmark project strengthens the domestic solar supply chain and reduces dependence on imports, positioning the country as a key player in the global renewable energy sector. Speaking at the inauguration, Pralhad Joshi highlighted the importance of the facility in advancing India’s expertise in clean energy technologies. He stated, “This magnificent facility embodies India’s growing stature in the global renewable energy landscape. It aligns with our national vision of establishing India as a global manufacturing hub for clean energy technologies. This plant will not only cater to domestic needs but will also position India as a major exporter of advanced solar technologies.”
Reflecting on India’s historical connection with solar energy, Joshi emphasized the Gayatri Mantra’s dedication to the Sun and lamented India’s slow progress in renewable energy before Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office in 2014. “Until 2014, India had no significant presence on the global sustainability map. Under PM Modi’s leadership, we have not only joined the global energy revolution but are now leading it. Today, India ranks third globally in renewable energy capacity, with solar power capacity skyrocketing from 2.82 GW in 2014 to 104 GW today—a 3580% increase.”
He further highlighted the exponential growth in solar module production, which has surged from 2 GW in 2014 to 80 GW today. India has also established 25 GW of solar cell manufacturing capacity and 2 GW of wafer production, industries that were nonexistent in 2014. To further strengthen the sector, the government has mandated that all solar PV modules used in projects must source their solar cells from the ALM List-II starting June 1, 2026. By 2030, India aims to produce 150 GW of solar modules, 100 GW of solar cells, and 40 GW of wafers.
Under PM Modi’s leadership, India co-founded the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to accelerate the global development of solar energy, with over 100 countries now committed to the initiative. Joshi underscored India’s emergence as a leading voice of the Global South in the renewable energy transition, challenging the dominance of other global players. He credited PM Modi’s One Sun, One World, One Grid initiative as a testament to India’s leadership in energy diplomacy, emphasizing how even the European Union College of Commissioners now views India as a preferred partner in renewable energy collaboration.
Praising Gujarat’s pioneering role in renewable energy development, Joshi said, “Gujarat has set a national benchmark for renewable energy expansion. The state’s model should be replicated across India to create a conducive environment for industrial investments in clean energy. Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel deserves recognition for continuing PM Modi’s vision and ensuring Gujarat remains at the forefront of renewable energy growth.”
Highlighting the job creation potential of the green transition, Joshi cited the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, which estimates that 170 million new jobs will be created globally by 2030. The new 5.4 GW solar cell plant in Gujarat will play a crucial role in job creation, offering significant opportunities for local workers and professionals.
He further emphasized Gujarat’s leadership in energy transformation, noting that 57% of the state’s total energy capacity comes from renewables, with thermal energy accounting for 43%. The Central Government’s PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana has already facilitated 3.85 lakh rooftop solar installations in Gujarat, and Shri Joshi called for a further push to accelerate its implementation across the state.
