Andhra Pradesh is set to strengthen its role in India’s solar manufacturing ecosystem as Tata Power Renewable Energy, a Mumbai-based clean energy developer, moves forward with plans for a 10-gigawatt ingot and wafer facility in Nellore. The proposed greenfield project, representing an investment of approximately INR 6,675 crore ($804 million), aims to bolster domestic solar supply chains while supporting broader renewable energy goals in southern India.
The Andhra Pradesh government has allocated 200 acres within the Iffco Kisan Special Economic Zone for the initiative, with 120 acres earmarked for initial construction and the remaining reserved for future expansion. The project has received approval from the State Investment Promotion Board and is awaiting cabinet sanction. Officials expect the facility to generate employment for around 1,000 local residents, potentially boosting skill development and income opportunities in the region. A senior industry analyst noted that the project aligns with India’s push to achieve self-reliance in solar manufacturing, reducing dependence on imported modules and cells. By establishing a domestic ingot and wafer production line, Tata Power Renewable Energy can ensure more resilient supply chains for solar projects, enabling faster deployment of utility-scale and rooftop installations across the country.
The company has also planned a 200 MW captive renewable power plant to support the facility’s energy needs, ensuring that the plant operates sustainably and with minimal reliance on fossil fuels. Integrating renewable power into the manufacturing process underscores the potential for low-carbon industrial operations, contributing to state and national climate targets while promoting energy-efficient industrial practices. Urban and economic planners point out that large-scale renewable manufacturing hubs like this can generate multiplier effects in local economies. Ancillary services, logistics, and skilled workforce requirements can stimulate regional development while fostering technology transfer and innovation in clean energy. Moreover, locating the plant in a Special Economic Zone is expected to streamline regulatory compliance, reduce operational costs, and attract further private investment in green industries.
Experts highlight that Andhra Pradesh’s renewable energy policy and land allotment mechanisms have positioned the state as a preferred destination for climate-aligned industrial projects. The project is expected to complement ongoing solar generation initiatives and support India’s broader target of achieving net-zero emissions by mid-century. If implemented on schedule, Tata Power Renewable Energy’s ingot and wafer facility could become a cornerstone for domestic solar manufacturing, enhancing both the technological capabilities and economic resilience of the region. Successful commissioning of the plant would provide a blueprint for sustainable industrial expansion that balances employment, energy efficiency, and low-carbon operations.
Tata Power To Build Solar Manufacturing Hub
