Premier Energies Commissions 7 GW Solar Cell Plant
Premier Energies expands cell capacity to 10.6 GW via a Rs 3,293 crore facility in Andhra Pradesh, targeting 25.8% efficiency.
Key points
- Premier Energies commissioned a 7 GW solar cell facility in Naidupeta, expanding total capacity to 10.6 GW.
- The plant was built for Rs 3,293 crore and targets 25.8 percent cell efficiency with automated production systems.
- The company plans to add 10 GW of ingot-wafer capacity by 2028 as part of a Rs 12,500 crore integration strategy.
Premier Energies has commissioned a 7 GW N-type TOPCon solar cell facility in Naidupeta, Andhra Pradesh, bringing its total cell manufacturing capacity to 10.6 GW. The 101-acre plant, built at a cost of Rs 3,293 crore, positions the company as India’s largest solar cell manufacturer and marks a significant step toward vertical integration in the domestic solar supply chain.
This expansion nearly triples the company’s cell capacity from the 3.6 GW reported at the end of FY2025-26. The new line is designed to produce approximately 88,000 cells per hour with a target average efficiency of 25.8 percent. According to the Dalal Street Investment Journal, the facility has begun trial runs after being completed on schedule and within budget.
Technical specifications and automation
The facility utilizes N-type TOPCon G12R technology, integrating artificial intelligence for predictive performance analysis and process control. Automated systems handle material transport, packing, and packaging to enhance operational throughput. The infrastructure is also designed for future upgrades, including poly-finger metallisation and advanced edge-isolation processes, ensuring long-term technological relevance.
Managing Director Chiranjeev Saluja stated that the addition improves supply reliability and operating efficiency. He expressed confidence in the outlook for orders, pricing, and demand for high-efficiency solar products, noting that the new line aligns with the company’s strategy to reduce exposure to imported inputs and improve cost competitiveness.
Financial performance and expansion roadmap
The commissioning follows a strong financial quarter where net sales rose 35.25 percent year-on-year to Rs 2,462.59 crore, and profit after tax increased 53.27 percent to Rs 471.38 crore. Despite the growth, operating margins moderated to 29.01 percent from 30.11 percent, highlighting the need for scale efficiencies at the new facility to sustain profitability.
This project represents roughly one-fourth of the company’s Rs 12,500 crore three-year investment plan, which includes expanding into ingot, wafer, and battery storage operations. Management targets a utilization rate of 50 to 60 percent by November, rising to at least 70 percent by the March quarter, making the production ramp a critical operational metric for investors.
