In a major push to Andhra Pradesh’s clean energy mission, Premier Energies has announced plans to establish a ₹5,942 crore fully integrated solar cell manufacturing complex at Naidupeta Industrial Park in Nellore district, marking one of India’s largest private clean energy investments.
The announcement was shared by IT, Electronics, and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh on his X handle, describing the project as a reflection of the State’s ‘speed, clarity, and investor-first approach’. He said the project demonstrates Andhra Pradesh’s ability to deliver large-scale industrial investments with efficiency and transparency.
Discussions for the project began in October 2024, focusing on building deep upstream solar manufacturing capacity, including solar cells, ingots, and wafers, to strengthen India’s renewable energy value chain amid global supply disruptions.
By February 2025, the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC) had fast-tracked the process, allocating 269 acres for the project — with 169.71 acres formally sanctioned and another 100 acres approved in principle. The location was chosen for its port-led logistics, reliable infrastructure, and proximity to major energy and transport hubs.
The upcoming facility will feature a 4 GW TOPCon solar cell line and a 5 GW silicon ingot and wafer plant, ensuring complete backward integration. This co-location strategy is expected to enhance process control, reduce costs, and boost India’s competitiveness in both domestic and export markets.
Solar cell manufacturing unit to generate 3,500 direct jobs: Lokesh
According to Lokesh, the project will generate around 3,500 direct jobs and thousands of indirect opportunities through supporting MSMEs, logistics, and service sectors. A phased expansion to 7 GW capacity is also planned to meet India’s growing renewable energy demand.
Lokesh said that the Naidupeta site was strategically selected to optimise freight, energy, water, and workforce availability, enabling rapid commissioning. He highlighted that the project aligns with Andhra Pradesh’s vision to become a renewable manufacturing corridor, driving self-reliance in solar technology and supporting India’s clean energy transition.
“Premier Energies’ story in Andhra Pradesh is about speed with substance,” Lokesh said. “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.”
The project further strengthens Premier Energies’ position as India’s second-largest integrated solar company, expanding its leadership in next-generation photovoltaic technologies while reinforcing the State’s emergence as a green energy hub.
