Tata Power Solar has officially begun commercial production at its newly commissioned 2 GW solar cell line within its expansive 4.3 GW manufacturing facility in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. This significant milestone follows the plant’s opening in October 2023, marking a pivotal advancement in India’s solar energy sector.
To date, the facility has successfully produced 1,250 MW of solar modules. Over the next four to six weeks, Tata Power Solar plans to ramp up production to fully utilize the remaining 2 GW capacity, aiming to reach peak production levels within the coming months.
Dr. Praveer Sinha, CEO and Managing Director of Tata Power, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, “The commencement of cell production at our Tirunelveli plant is a significant step towards indigenization in the solar value chain and achieving self-sufficiency. We believe that this plant will lead the way in supporting the country’s vision for a Net-Zero carbon future.”
The ₹4,300 crore (approximately $512 million) facility is equipped to manufacture both TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) and Mono Perc solar cells. Tata Power intends to leverage these advanced solar components to strengthen the supply chain for ongoing projects and expand distribution across the broader market.
The solar modules produced at this facility are already listed on the government’s Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM). Tata Power anticipates that the solar cells will soon receive similar approval.
In addition to the Tirunelveli plant, Tata Power Solar operates another major facility in Bengaluru, Karnataka, with a production capacity of 682 MW for solar modules and 530 MW for solar cells.
Growing Solar Power in India
India’s solar power sector is rapidly expanding. According to the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), India’s solar potential is estimated at approximately 748 GW. By the end of 2022, India ranked fifth globally in solar PV deployment.
Solar energy plays a crucial role in India’s National Action Plan, serving as a key element for rural electrification through decentralized systems and enhancing energy security via grid-connected power generation.
Tata Power’s new production facility is poised to address the rising demand for domestically produced solar components, particularly for large-scale capacity expansion projects. With a 20% market share in the solar rooftop and utility-scale segments, Tata Power is focused on further growth in these areas.
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