In a major boost to Andhra Pradesh’s clean energy ambitions, Premier Energies is set to establish a Rs 59.4 billion fully integrated solar manufacturing complex at Naidupeta Industrial Park in Nellore district. The announcement was shared by Minister for IT Nara Lokesh on his X handle, describing the project as a testament to the State’s speed, clarity, and investor-first approach. Framed as a founder-style journey, Lokesh detailed how rapid execution, strategic port-led logistics, and proactive incentives helped India’s second-largest integrated solar company anchor its next growth phase in Andhra Pradesh. Discussions began in October 2024, focusing on strengthening India’s solar value chain by building deep upstream capacity—including solar cells, ingots, and wafers—to reduce dependence on global supply chains. By February 2025, the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC) had fast-tracked 269 acres for the project, with 169.71 acres allotted and 100 acres approved in principle. The swift land allocation, supported by trunk infrastructure and immediate port access, underscored the State’s outcomes-driven governance. It also gave Premier Energies the confidence to consolidate its operations at a single, scalable location. The upcoming facility will feature a 4 GW TOPCon solar cell line alongside a 5 GW silicon ingot and wafer plant, ensuring full backward integration. This co-location model is expected to enhance process control, cut costs, and strengthen competitiveness across domestic and export markets. Lokesh highlighted that the project complements Premier Energies’ existing module capacities and strengthens India’s position in next-generation photovoltaic technologies. The complex is projected to create about 3,500 direct jobs, with significant indirect employment through ancillary industries. A phased expansion to 7 GW is also planned to meet rising demand. Lokesh described the initiative as a catalyst for green jobs and a strong manufacturing ecosystem benefiting MSMEs, logistics, and service sectors. Explaining the strategic choice of Naidupeta, Lokesh cited proximity to ports, reliable infrastructure, and Andhra Pradesh’s port-led industrial strategy, which reduces risks for upstream solar manufacturing. The location was selected to optimise freight, energy, water, and talent availability—facilitating faster commissioning. Positioning the project within a broader vision, Lokesh said Andhra Pradesh is developing a renewable manufacturing corridor to boost self-reliance and global competitiveness in solar exports. He reaffirmed the State’s commitment to investor-friendly reforms, competitive incentives, and streamlined facilitation. “Premier Energies’ story in Andhra Pradesh is about speed with substance,” Lokesh remarked. “From day one, we aligned on integration, logistics, and timelines—and executed. This is how Andhra Pradesh will lead in clean energy manufacturing: by turning intent into assets, fast.”