Solar Encapsulant Demand Rises on Module

Demand for solar encapsulants is rising alongside a temporary surge in module demand. This follows the extension of India's Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) mandate for solar cells.

Karnataka's large-scale solar market is set for another phase of capacity expansion. Nearly 11 gigawatts of projects are under development and in the pre-construction stage.

Policy and Regulatory Updates

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy extended the deadline for claiming central financial assistance for certain residential rooftop solar applications. These applications were submitted under Phase II of the Grid Connected Rooftop Solar Program.

In Haryana, the state's Electricity Regulatory Commission directed distribution companies to process applications for renewable energy banking alongside open access applications. Analysts note Telangana's green energy open access market has considerable room for growth as commercial and industrial consumers seek more renewable energy.

Manufacturing and Project Development

Waaree Transpower, a subsidiary of Waaree Energies, will invest ₹1.92 billion (approximately $20.15 million) in a new transformer manufacturing facility. The plant will have a capacity of 500 MVA and 400 kV.

Manufacturing facilities are increasingly turning to rooftop solar to cut electricity costs. Material handling equipment manufacturer Technovision Engineers installed a 150-kW rooftop solar system at its facility in Pune, Maharashtra. The system is expected to generate about 198,000 kWh of electricity annually, averaging 542 kWh daily.

A major pumped storage project is moving forward in Maharashtra. The Godavari Marathwada Irrigation Development Corporation invited bids for the proposed upgrade, operation, maintenance, and management of the Jayakwadi pumped storage project on a public-private partnership basis. The last date to submit bids is September 21, 2026, with bids opening on September 23.

Market Pressures and Growth

India's rapid renewable energy expansion is increasing pressure on thermal power plants to operate more flexibly. A Central Electricity Authority committee has proposed implementing two-shift operations at aging coal-based units to accommodate the variable nature of solar and wind power.

The global market for solar project operations and maintenance continues to expand significantly. The assessed capacity reached 348 GW at the end of 2025. This represents a year-over-year increase of 61 GW.