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IB Solar’s Module Capacity To Touch 1.8 GW By April 2026

In an interview with Saur Energy, Abhinav Mahajan, Director at IB Solar talks about its current market position, its expansion plans. Excerpts:

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Manish Kumar
IB Solar

IB Solar’s Module Capacity To Touch 1.8 GW By April 2026 Photograph: (Saur Energy)

How strong is IB Solar now in solar manufacturing?

IB Solar currently operates a strong solar module manufacturing base with a growing focus on high-efficiency technologies. It has a manufacturing capacity of 700 MW, and by April 2026, cumulative capacity will exceed 1.8 GW. N-type TOPCon G2G bifacial solar panels, the latest technology over the past year reflecting global industry trends prioritising higher efficiency, better temperature coefficients, and long-term performance advantages, have been major sellers to leading RE developers and EPC players across utility and distributed solar plants.
Mono-PERC modules, however, continue to represent an important portion of production due to established demand and cost competitiveness, particularly in KUSUM-B solar pumping applications.

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What is the latest update on your solar cell manufacturing plans?

IB Solar is actively progressing with plans to establish domestic solar cell manufacturing to strengthen backward integration and reduce reliance on imports. Uttar Pradesh was selected due to its strategic geographic position, improving industrial infrastructure, supportive state policies, and proximity to existing solar PV module units. The proposed facility will focus on advanced cell technologies aligned with future-ready standards, with emphasis on high-efficiency architectures such as TOPCon/IBC for in-house captive consumption.

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Is there still sufficient demand for mono-PERC modules?

Mono-PERC is not redundant yet. While newer technologies like TOPCon and HJT are gaining momentum, mono-PERC remains relevant for cost-sensitive KUSUM-B pumping projects. Some developers still prioritise bankability, established performance history, and competitive pricing. However, the long-term trend clearly favours higher-efficiency technologies, and mono-PERC’s share is expected to gradually decline rather than disappear immediately.

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What impact will ALCM have on module prices this year?

The implementation and tightening of ALCM are likely to stabilise domestic solar cell manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports. In the short term, this may create upward pressure on module prices due to supply adjustments and compliance requirements. As domestic capacity scales and local supply chains mature, pricing should stabilise. Overall, ALCM supports long-term industry sustainability and encourages investment in Indian manufacturing, transitioning India from an assembly economy to a solar manufacturing powerhouse.

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What new areas have you expanded into beyond solar modules?

Over the last year, IB Solar has explored complementary segments aligned with the broader energy transition, including energy storage solutions and related technologies that enhance the value proposition of solar projects. The company has introduced “IB Energy” for energy storage solutions, currently catering to residential and C&I segments.

Are you planning further diversification into areas such as BESS or inverters?

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Yes. Diversification into adjacent clean-energy segments remains a strategic priority. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), hybrid solutions, and advanced power electronics are under evaluation, with the goal of offering BESS solutions in GWh capacities.

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What can we expect by the end of FY2026 in terms of capacity and portfolio?

The company has expanded its manufacturing footprint and is projected to reach around 1.8 GW+ of solar panel capacity, supported by a new plant in YEIDA, Uttar Pradesh. By the end of FY2026, the cell line will be in the construction and early setup phase, ramping towards full operational readiness in early FY2027. This marks a transformation from a module assembler to a vertically integrated solar manufacturer, reducing dependence on imported cells and improving cost competitiveness.Another key development is expansion into EPC through the formation of IB Solar Infra Developers Pvt. Ltd., which has already secured multiple solar EPC projects, including power plants and KUSUM-B pumping projects.

solar cell manufacturing solar module manufacturing Abhinav Mahajan interview
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