Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi, inaugurated Warree Energy’s 5.4 GW solar cell manufacturing facility in Chikhli, Gujarat. The event was attended by Union Jal Shakti Minister Shri C. R. Patil, Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel, and other senior state ministers. As India’s largest solar cell production plant, this facility marks a significant step toward strengthening the domestic solar supply chain and reducing import dependence. Speaking at the event, Shri Joshi emphasised that the plant aligns with India’s vision of becoming a global hub for clean energy technologies, positioning the country as both a leading producer and exporter of advanced solar solutions. Highlighting India’s progress in renewable energy, he noted that solar power capacity has surged from 2.82 GW in 2014 to 104 GW today, a 3,580% increase. Similarly, solar module production capacity has grown from 2 GW to 80 GW, while solar cell production has reached 25 GW, with wafer production at 2 GW. He announced that from June 1, 2026, all solar PV modules used in projects must source their solar cells from ALM List-II, further boosting domestic manufacturing. By 2030, India aims to achieve 150 GW in solar module production, 100 GW in solar cell capacity, and 40 GW in wafer production. Shri Joshi also highlighted India’s leadership in global renewable energy initiatives, including co-founding the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and launching the One Sun, One World, One Grid initiative. He praised Gujarat’s pioneering role in renewable energy and urged other states to adopt its model of industrial and sustainable growth. The minister further cited the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, which projects 170 million new jobs in green energy by 2030, emphasising that this new gigafactory will create significant employment opportunities. He also highlighted Gujarat’s 57% renewable energy share and the need to expand installations under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. Shri Joshi concluded by reaffirming Gujarat’s leadership in responsible and sustainable business, stating that this new facility will play a crucial role in making India a global powerhouse in solar energy. (PIB)