We will pump in Rs 3000 cr+ in next 2-3 years to support our expansion plans: Websol MD

Nothing could have been more encouraging than to see India scaling up its solar manufacturing at such an unprecedented pace, with 181.6 GW of module and 86.1 GW of cell capacity under construction. This remarkable growth reflects the country's ambition to become a global solar leader and strengthens India's path toward energy self-reliance and a clean energy future.

- RITWIK MUKHERJEE

The exponential rise of solar has been made possible through consistent policy support, from the JNNSM to PLI schemes and initiatives encouraging rooftop and decentralized solar deployment. Speaking to The Statesman, Sohan Lal Agarwal, Managing Director, Websol Energy System Limited, one of the earliest movers in the sector, decodes India's transformation into a clean energy consumer, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and moving steadily toward energy self-reliance. Excerpts:

Q: How have you seen the Indian solar sector grow over the last three decades?

A: It is truly a moment of immense satisfaction for me to witness the journey of India's solar sector over the past thirty years. When we began our work in the 1990s, solar energy was largely experimental with several limitations, be it technology, financial feasibility or policy support. Back then, I always envisioned a future where solar would become a mainstream energy source, powering homes, farms, industries, and contributing meaningfully to the nation's energy security. Today, seeing India achieve over 127 gigawatts of installed solar capacity, making it the third-largest solar generator globally, is nothing short of extraordinary.

The exponential rise of solar has been made possible through consistent policy support, from the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) to Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes and initiatives encouraging rooftop and decentralised solar deployment.

As someone who has been part of this journey from the early days, I am especially proud that Websol, as a pioneer in solar cell manufacturing, has grown alongside the industry. Our focus has always been on enhancing cell and module efficiency, while exploring innovative applications. Seeing solar evolve from a vision into a cornerstone of India's sustainable energy future is immensely fulfilling.

Q: What is your current solar module and cell manufacturing capacity?