14 August 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC

1. India Achieves Historic Milestone of 100 GW Solar PV Module Manufacturing Capacity under ALMM

Source – Press Information Bureau (PIB) – Ministry of Jal Shakti (14 August 2025)

Content: 

Overview & Significance

• Historic Growth: Solar PV module manufacturing capacity in India soared from 2.3 GW in 2014 to 100 GW in 2025 under the ALMM regime—a transformative leap.

• Policy Drivers: Launch of the ALMM Order on 2 January 2019 and publication of the first ALMM list with ~ 8.2 GW capacity in March 2021 marked the policy’s early phase.

• PLI Scheme Role: The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for High-Efficiency Solar PV Modules, alongside policies ensuring a level playing field for domestic manufacturers, catalyzed rapid expansion.

Expansion of the Manufacturing Ecosystem

• Scale & Diversity: Number of manufacturers grew from 21 in 2021 to 100, operating 123 manufacturing units as of 2025—indicating both scale and competitive diversity.

• Technological Adoption: Many players embraced high-efficiency technologies and vertical integration, boosting both quality and cost competitiveness.

Alignment with Broader Energy Goals

• This milestone supports India’s target of 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, reinforcing its global climate commitments and energy security strategy.

• A robust solar manufacturing base positions India as a key player in the global solar value chain, aiding export potential and economic resilience.

Policy Implications & Way Forward

• Continued Support Needed: To sustain momentum, the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) pledges ongoing infrastructure development, stakeholder engagement, and innovation support.

• Forward Strategy:

  • Strengthen research and development in ultra-efficient and cost-effective solar technologies.

  • Enhance supply chain resilience (e.g., for polysilicon, solar glass, automation).

  • Promote exports through international collaborations and standardized quality frameworks.

  • Facilitate financing and capacity expansion for smaller and mid-sized manufacturers.

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