7th February 2025 (13 Topics)

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India's largest solar cell and module manufacturing unit

Context

India's largest solar cell and module manufacturing unit has been recently inaugurated at the Gangaikondan SIPCOT Industrial Growth Centre in Tamil Nadu.

About the Plant

The facility is set up by TATA Power's solar energy arm, TP Solar Limited
Investment: Rs 3,800 crore.
It is designed to produce 30-GW photovoltaic cells and modules annually, which will be used in solar power generation units across the country.
The plant is equipped with advanced robotic automation, and will feature cutting-edge TOPCon and Mono Perc technology, which will ensure high efficiency and long-term reliability for solar projects, including rooftop solar installations.
The unit will not only produce solar modules but also manufacture raw materials necessary for module production.
Additionally, Vikram Solar is also setting up a 3-GW solar cell and 6-GW module manufacturing facility at the same site, further boosting the region’s solar energy manufacturing capabilities. This expansion is part of Tamil Nadu's ongoing efforts to create a robust clean energy infrastructure.

Fact Box:

Solar Cells:

A solar cell or photovoltaic (PV) cell is the basic unit of a solar panel that converts sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect.
When sunlight strikes the cell, it excites electrons in the material, generating electrical current.
The most commonly used material in solar cells is silicon, though newer technologies like TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) and Mono Perc (Monocrystalline Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact) are being adopted to enhance efficiency.

Solar Modules:

A solar module (or solar panel) consists of several solar cells connected together.
The cells are encapsulated in a durable frame and covered with glass to protect them from the environment.
These modules are the building blocks of solar power systems, providing the capacity to generate electricity.

Important Government Schemes

National Solar Mission (NSM): Launched in January 2010, NSM is a major initiative to promote ecological sustainable growth while addressing India’s energy security challenges.
PM-KUSUM Scheme: (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan): Launched in March 2019, the PM-KUSUM Scheme supports farmers by offering financial assistance for installing solar-powered irrigation systems, including solar pumps and grid-connected solar power plants.
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana: Launched in February 2024, the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, the world’s largest domestic rooftop solar initiative, is designed to promote rooftop solar energy adoption in residential areas.

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GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

7th February 2025 (13 Topics)

Copy

India's largest solar cell and module manufacturing unit

About the Plant

Fact Box:

Solar Cells:

Solar Modules:

Still Have Questions?

GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

India's largest solar cell and module manufacturing unit

About the Plant

Fact Box:

Solar Cells:

Solar Modules:

Still Have Questions?

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