Premier Energies Hits 10.6 GW Capacity with New Andhra Pradesh Plant
Premier Energies commissioned a 7 GW TOPCon cell facility, raising total capacity to 10.6 GW and cementing its position as India's largest solar cell maker.
Key points
- Premier Energies commissioned a 7 GW TOPCon solar cell plant in Andhra Pradesh for a cost of ₹3,293 crore.
- Total solar cell capacity rises to 10.6 GW, making the company India's largest solar cell manufacturer.
- The facility produces ~88,000 cells per hour with a target efficiency of 25.8% using advanced AI-driven controls.
Premier Energies has commissioned a 7 GW N-type TOPCon solar cell manufacturing facility at Naidupeta, Andhra Pradesh. The project, which required a capital expenditure of ₹3,293 crore, increases the company's aggregate solar cell capacity to 10.6 GW. This expansion positions Premier Energies as the largest solar cell manufacturer in India, significantly scaling its production footprint in the domestic market.
The new plant spans 101 acres and is designed for high-throughput operations, capable of producing approximately 88,000 solar cells per hour. According to disclosures reported by scanx.trade, the facility utilizes advanced digital systems and artificial intelligence for predictive performance analysis and process control. Upon full stabilization, the line targets an average solar cell efficiency of 25.8%, leveraging next-generation TOPCon technology with provisions for future upgrades to poly-finger metallisation and advanced edge-isolation processes.
Operational Metrics and Efficiency Targets
The commissioning of this facility represents a critical execution milestone for the company, achieved within the planned budget and timeline. The primary objective is to improve supply reliability and operating efficiency as the production line stabilizes. By integrating scale with automation, Premier Energies aims to address growing demand for high-efficiency solar products in both domestic and international markets, thereby strengthening its supply-chain resilience.
Broader Capex and Strategic Integration
This expansion is part of a broader ₹12,500 crore capital expenditure programme planned over three years. The initiative seeks to more than double solar manufacturing capacity while expanding backward integration into ingot and wafer production. Additionally, the company is diversifying its portfolio by entering adjacent segments such as inverters, transformers, and battery energy storage systems, aiming to create a more comprehensive integrated manufacturing roadmap.
Sustainability and Market Positioning
The Naidupeta facility incorporates a Zero Liquid Discharge system to maximize water recycling and reuse, aligning with the company’s focus on sustainable manufacturing practices. Management noted that the timing of this commissioning aligns with positive outlooks for orders and pricing in the sector. The combination of scale, technology, and sustainability features is intended to solidify Premier Energies' competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving global solar market.
