India urged to expand solar cell output as China tightens tech exports

At the Renewable Energy India Expo 2026 in Greater Noida, Chetan Shah, chairman and managing director of Solex Energy, warned that China's plan to curb exports of critical photovoltaic manufacturing technologies could create a shortage of solar modules in India. He cited China's control of an estimated 75-90% of the global solar supply chain and pointed out that India's cell capacity, at about 37 GW, lags far behind its module capacity of 262 GW.

Shah urged the Indian government to prolong the ALMM-II order for another 12 months, include all solar project types, and launch a mission to boost domestic production of PV equipment through incentives or subsidies. He also recommended securing alternative technology sources through partnerships with the US, EU, Japan, Korea and Taiwan, and pursuing government-to-government agreements. Finally, Shah suggested diplomatic engagement with China to protect existing contracts while the industry ramps up new cell lines.