Waaree Energies Unveils India’s Largest 5.4 GW Solar Cell Plant – A Game-Changer for Clean Energy
Waaree Energies Ltd has launched India’s largest solar cell manufacturing facility in Chikhli, Gujarat, with a production capacity of 5.4 gigawatts (GW). Spanning 150 acres, the facility aims to boost India’s renewable energy sector and drive self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat). The inauguration was attended by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, who highlighted its significance in making India a clean energy leader. Hitesh Doshi, Chairman and MD of Waaree Energies, called it a milestone for energy independence and technological advancement.
The plant is expected to generate over 9,500 direct jobs and 30,000 indirect employment opportunities, fostering economic growth. Waaree Energies, headquartered in Mumbai, is a key player in India’s renewable energy sector, with a total solar PV module production capacity of 15 GW globally. Its operations extend beyond India, including a 1.6 GW facility in Texas, USA. This expansion aligns with India’s vision to become a global hub for clean energy manufacturing.
Waaree Energies Unveils India’s Largest 5.4 GW Solar Cell Plant – A Game-Changer for Clean Energy
Waaree Energies Ltd, a key player in India’s clean energy sector, has made a significant stride by opening the country’s largest solar cell manufacturing plant in Chikhli, Gujarat. Spanning 150 acres, the facility is designed to produce 5.4 gigawatts (GW) of solar cells annually, with 101 acres dedicated to infrastructure, including factories and offices. This project marks a milestone in India’s journey toward renewable energy self-sufficiency and technological advancement.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent leaders, including Pralhad Joshi, India’s Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. In his address, Joshi underscored the facility’s crucial role in advancing the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) vision. He emphasized that this initiative reflects India’s ambition to lead globally in renewable energy while reducing its reliance on imported technology.
A Catalyst for Energy Independence and Job Creation
Hitesh Doshi, Chairman and Managing Director of Waaree Energies, expressed his enthusiasm about the facility’s potential to drive India’s energy independence. Beyond expanding solar cell production, the plant is set to generate over 9,500 direct jobs in manufacturing, engineering, and operations. Additionally, around 30,000 indirect jobs will be created in sectors such as logistics, maintenance, and local services, positively impacting communities in Gujarat and beyond. Doshi highlighted that this project is not just about clean energy—it’s about fueling economic growth and improving livelihoods.
Waaree’s Global Footprint and India’s Clean Energy Vision
Headquartered in Mumbai, Waaree Energies is already a major force in the renewable energy sector, with a global solar photovoltaic (PV) module production capacity of 15 GW. Its manufacturing units span across India and include a 1.6 GW facility in Texas, USA, catering to international demand. The new Gujarat plant further strengthens India’s position as a hub for clean energy innovation, aligning with the government’s target of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
Why This Matters for India
- Reducing Import Reliance – By scaling up domestic solar cell production, India can cut down on costly imports, making renewable energy projects more affordable and accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels.
- Economic Growth – The thousands of jobs created by the plant will stimulate local economies, empower skilled and unskilled workers, and drive growth in related industries.
- Global Leadership – Large-scale projects like this position India as a global supplier of advanced clean energy solutions, competing with major players such as China and the U.S.
A Step Toward a Greener Future
The Chikhli facility is more than just a factory—it’s a symbol of India’s commitment to sustainability. Solar energy plays a crucial role in the nation’s climate strategy, and expanding manufacturing capabilities ensures a steady supply of components for solar farms, rooftop installations, and off-grid projects. This initiative supports global efforts to combat climate change while addressing energy poverty in rural areas.
Looking Ahead
Waaree’s investment in Gujarat reflects the growing confidence in India’s renewable energy policies. Government incentives, such as production-linked incentives (PLIs) for solar manufacturing, have encouraged companies to invest in cutting-edge technology. As more such facilities emerge, India could soon become a net exporter of solar cells and modules, transforming its energy landscape.
In summary, Waaree Energies’ new gigafactory is a major win for India’s economy, environment, and global standing. By combining innovation with large-scale job creation, the project paves the way for a cleaner, self-reliant future while setting a benchmark for other nations to follow.