Tata Power has announced a major milestone with the commissioning of its wholly owned subsidiary TP Solar's 4.3 gigawatt (GW) PV cell and module plant in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, marking a new peak in solar manufacturing in India. This plant is not only the largest solar cell and module manufacturing base in India, but also a key step for Tata Power to promote the transformation of India's energy structure and realize the localization of the solar industry chain.

According to officials, the establishment and operation of the plant is a concrete manifestation of Tata Power's active response to the government's "Make in India" initiative, which aims to reduce dependence on imported photovoltaic products, promote domestic employment and accelerate India's competitiveness in the global solar sector. Using advanced production technology and environmental standards, the factory is able to efficiently produce high-quality commercial solar cells and modules to provide reliable and clean energy solutions for customers in India and around the world.

However, it is worth noting that although TP Solar is leading the industry in terms of technology and scale, its production schedule is delayed compared to the plan announced in September last year. Originally expected to complete the first component production by the end of 2023 and fully start commercial battery production in the first quarter of 2024, the plan was finally delayed by two quarters. Praveer Sinha, Chief Executive Officer and managing Director of Tata Power, said: "Despite the many challenges, including the instability of the global supply chain, the complexity of the technology commissioning and the uncertainty caused by the pandemic, we are determined to proceed with the project. Today's production is the result of the tireless efforts of our team and the support of all sectors."

Sinha further stressed: "The start-up of production at the Tirunervili plant is an important step towards the localization of our solar industry chain and our goal of energy self-sufficiency. We believe that through localized production and innovation, the cost of solar power generation can be significantly reduced, so that more Indian people can enjoy the clean and economic energy brought by solar energy. Tata Power is committed to being a driver of India's renewable energy transition and contributing to building a bright future powered by renewable energy."

It is worth mentioning that the successful landing of the project also benefited from the help of international capital. Last September, TP Solar received a $425 million investment from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), which provides strong financial support for the smooth progress of the project. DFC's investment not only highlights the international market's recognition of the development potential of India's Solar industry, but also injects new impetus into the international strategic layout of Tata Power and TP Solar.