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Surat: A solar cell ‘gigafactory' of Waaree Energies Ltd , with a 5.4GW annual capacity, was inaugurated at Chikhli in Navsari district on Saturday by chief minister Bhupendra Patel and Union renewable energy minister Prahlad Joshi. Spread across 150 acres, with a built-up area of 101 acres, this facility is said to be one of its kind in the country.
In his address, the CM said that companies such as Waaree have contributed to Gujarat's green growth with the mantra of ‘Zero Effect, Zero Defect". He added, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave the mantra of ‘One Earth, One Sun, One Grid' to ensure energy security. This project aligns with his vision.
Waaree Energy has inaugurated India's largest solar cell manufacturing unit. This plant will be a milestone in renewable energy, marking a significant step in India's journey." Patel further spoke of how the Vibrant Summit provided a platform for manufacturing, innovation and new industries, establishing Gujarat as a model of development and a policy-driven state.
Due to the ease of doing business, Gujarat has become the preferred state for investors, leading to the establishment of world-class companies. "While the world was discussing renewable, green and clean energy, Gujarat had already established solar energy plants. The present era is one of solar, wind, hydro and green energy, promoting green growth.
Gujarat is actively working in this direction. Our renewable energy capacity makes up 15% of the country's capacity, amounting to 32,924 megawatts. In the central govt's various schemes, Gujarat holds the leading position with about 42% contribution in the PM Surya Shakti Free Electricity for Homes scheme," added Patel.
Describing the growth of the renewable energy sector in the country, Joshi said, "India is the third-largest producer of renewable energy equipment in the world. By 2030, module manufacturing is expected to exceed 125 gigawatts, with plans to ensure that everything from polysilicon to solar panels is produced domestically." "The operation of this unit has created 9,500 direct and 30,000 indirect jobs, including 2,300 first-time employees and 250 women, boosting local livelihoods.
The plant features a zero-liquid discharge purification system that recycles 470,000 litres of water daily," said Hitesh Doshi, chairman and managing director, Waaree Energies Ltd. Cabinet minister for finance and energy Kanu Desai, minister of state for home Harsh Sanghavi, and chairman of the joint parliamentary committee for One Nation One Election, P P Chaudhary, were also at the event. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Navratri Wishes , Eid Messages and quotes !.
