Solar module manufacturer Solex Energy has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with ISC Konstanz, Germany, to collaborate on research and development in advanced solar cell technologies. The agreement, introduced at a press conference in New Delhi on Tuesday, aims to strengthen India’s domestic solar manufacturing capabilities through technological exchange and joint innovation.
Under the partnership, ISC Konstanz will provide technological support to Solex for upgrading its upcoming TOPCon solar cell line and for the adoption of next-generation rear contact and c-Si tandem/perovskite solar technologies. The collaboration also involves setting up an in-house R&D line at Solex, which will draw upon ISC’s patent portfolio and technical expertise.
Chetan Shah, Chairman and Managing Director of Solex Energy, said the agreement represents a significant step toward expanding India’s capacity in high-efficiency solar manufacturing. “Through this strategic partnership, Solex will receive comprehensive R&D and technological support for the upgradation of our upcoming TopCon cell line and guidance in adopting next-generation rear-contact and silicon tandem solar technologies,” he said.
“ISC Konstanz will also assist us in establishing a dedicated in-house R&D department backed by their patented portfolio and deep expertise to ensure continuous innovation and the development of high-efficiency solar cell technologies in India,” he stated. Shah added that the collaboration reflects a growing synergy between Indian and European solar industries and underlines India’s intent to strengthen its solar technology base domestically.
The company also introduced a new solar module, described as India’s first ‘real-contact’ solar module — the TAPI Real Contact (TRC). According to the company, the module is designed to deliver up to 25 per cent efficiency and 665-watt peak output, with a low temperature coefficient and improved performance in low-light conditions. The module features a double-glass structure and comes with a 30-year performance warranty.
USD 1.5 Billion Investment Under Vision 2030
During the interaction, Shah detailed the company’s Vision 2030 plan, which involves an estimated US$1.5 billion investment to develop a fully integrated solar manufacturing ecosystem in India. The plan includes establishing 10 gigawatts (GW) of solar cell capacity, 10 GW of module manufacturing, and 2 GW of ingot and wafer production by the end of the decade.
“This is part of our long-term vision for 2030,” Shah said. “We have committed to establishing 10 GW of solar cells, 10 GW of solar modules and 2 GW of ingot and wafer production. These projects will be initiated in a phased manner and completed by 2030.”
He explained that the investment will be spread across multiple stages, with the first phases already underway. Solex currently has a 4 GW module manufacturing capacity and has started work on its cell manufacturing facility, which is expected to begin production by March 2027 with an initial 2.2 GW capacity.
Domestic Demand And Export Markets
Responding to questions about whether the expansion is aimed at domestic or export markets, Shah said the company plans to serve both. He cited India’s growing electricity demand as a major driver of domestic market expansion. “As per CERC data, electricity consumption in India across all sectors is increasing by about 12 per cent every year,” he said. “That translates to an additional 30 gigawatts of power demand annually, much of which is expected to come from renewable energy sources.”
He noted that India’s renewable energy initiatives, including large-scale projects such as the solar park in Dholera, Gujarat, have created strong momentum for the sector. “India has a huge potential as far as renewable energy is concerned,” he said.
Shah added that Solex is also active in Europe, particularly Germany, and plans to expand in the United States once market conditions stabilise. “The US is a very promising market,” he said, adding that the company would continue to explore international opportunities while focusing on domestic capacity expansion.
Shah acknowledged concerns about potential overcapacity in India’s solar module manufacturing space but said technological progress and continuous upgradation justify the planned investments. |
