India’s solar manufacturing sector is undergoing rapid change, marked by aggressive capacity expansions, backward integration into cell, wafer and ingot production, and a surge of new entrants investing heavily in domestic manufacturing. In this environment, Grew Solar has emerged as one of the fastest-growing players, supported by large-scale investments and a clear long-term roadmap.

At REI 2025, the SOLARbytes team spoke with Hardip Singh, Chief Operating Officer of Grew Solar, to learn about the company’s current capabilities, expansion plans, sustainability initiatives and its approach to staying technologically relevant in a rapidly evolving global PV landscape.

SOLARbytes: Indian solar manufacturers seem to be on a vigorous expansion spree. As several new players are entering the market, companies are increasing both vertical and parallel capacities and there is a strong push to develop a domestic ecosystem. As one of India’s leading PV manufacturers. Could you share details of Grew Solar’s current manufacturing capacity and future expansion plans?

Hardip Singh: Certainly. Our central manufacturing facility is in Jaipur, where we operate a 6.5 GW solar module production plant. This is the core of our current operations.

In addition, we are making significant upstream investments. We are developing an 8 GW solar cell manufacturing plant in Narmadapuram, with about 3 GW expected to be operational by March 2026. This phased approach allows us to scale efficiently while aligning with market demand and policy timelines, especially for initiatives like ALMM-II. 

SOLARbytes: We are increasingly hearing about a push toward a fully integrated supply chain—from modules to cells and even to wafers and ingots. How is Grew Solar preparing for this shift toward greater vertical integration?

Hardip Singh: This shift is real, and we anticipated it early. As a PLI awardee, backward integration is a natural part of our long-term strategy, not something driven by short-term market pressures.

We are already setting up 8 GW of ingot and wafer manufacturing capacity at our Narmadapuram site. Once operational, this will bring us closer to being a fully integrated manufacturer of modules, cells, wafers and ingots. The goal is to ensure supply chain security, enhance product competitiveness and align with India’s ambition to develop a comprehensive domestic solar manufacturing ecosystem.

SOLARbytes: Sustainability, carbon footprint and environmental compliance are becoming increasingly important worldwide. What sustainability practices and environmental measures is Grew Solar implementing across its facilities? 

Hardip Singh: Sustainability is embedded into our operational philosophy. We use solar power for daytime operations and also reducing our dependence on grid electricity at our Jaipur facility.

Water conservation is another key focus. In a state like Rajasthan, responsible water use is critical, so we recycle and reuse water extensively within our processes.

From a manufacturing perspective, module production is not highly critical and it does not involve harmful toxins or major emissions. Therefore, our environmental impact in this segment is relatively low. However, as we expand into wafers and ingots, we will incorporate advanced water-recycling, energy-efficient systems and waste-management practices from the outset. 

SOLARbytes: Solar technology is evolving faster than ever—from new cell architectures to materials, processes and equipment changes. How does Grew Solar plan investments that remain competitive and future-proof in the long run?

Hardip Singh: That’s a key concern for us. These facilities involve investments running into thousands of crores, so every technology decision must be made with a long-term perspective.  We ensure that the equipment we buy is compatible with upcoming technology shifts, whether it’s efficiency improvements, design upgrades or material changes. The same philosophy applies to our wafer and ingot expansion. Also choosing the right equipment partners and process architecture will be essential to maintaining competitiveness for years to come.

SOLARbytes: Thank you for the interview.