From Our Correspondent
Amaravati: In a move that has set off ripples in industrial circles, Premier Energies Limited — India’s second-largest integrated solar cell and module maker — has relocated its massive solar manufacturing project from Telangana to Andhra Pradesh, citing faster clearances, superior infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies.
The company is investing ₹1,700 crore in the first phase to establish a 4 GW TOPCon solar cell unit and a 5 GW silicon ingot and wafer plant at Naidupeta Industrial Park in Nellore district. Altogether, the project will see a total investment of ₹6,000 crore in phases, spread across 269 acres allotted by the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC).
Speaking about the decision, Premier Energies Executive Director Sudhir Moola said the company was impressed by the speed and efficiency of the Andhra Pradesh government.
“We had just submitted our proposal after learning about Swarnandhra Pradesh Vision 2047 and the state’s electronics manufacturing policy. Within a week, our proposal was evaluated and within eight weeks, we received all approvals. The infrastructure at Naidupeta — roads, power, and water — was world-class,” he said.
Groundwork for the project began in March 2025, and the first phase worth ₹3,400 crore is now nearing completion. The facility is expected to be operational by June 2026, creating over 2,000 direct jobs and many more indirect employment opportunities.
Officials said the government’s proactive approach — from rapid land allocation to continuous handholding — played a decisive role. The APIIC moved swiftly, starting discussions in October 2024 and completing land allotment by February 2025.
Premier Energies plans to further expand capacity to 7 GW, with an additional ₹502 crore investment.
The relocation marks a big win for Andhra Pradesh’s industrial and renewable energy ecosystem. With its port proximity, policy support, and focus on clean energy, the state is fast emerging as a preferred hub for solar manufacturing in India.
🔹 Key Reasons Behind the Shift
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Rapid Approvals: Project cleared in under 8 weeks.
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Ready Infrastructure: Roads, power and water available on-site.
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Proximity to Ports: Ideal for exports and supply chain logistics.
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Government Handholding: Continuous support during project execution.
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Clear Industrial Policy: Incentives under Swarnandhra Pradesh Vision 2047.
⚙️ Impact on Andhra Pradesh’s Green Economy
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2,000+ direct jobs in Phase 1; ancillary employment to follow.
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₹6,000 crore cumulative investment to strengthen clean-energy ecosystem.
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First major solar relocation from Telangana, signaling investor trust in AP.
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Boost to Nellore’s industrial profile, reinforcing coastal manufacturing zones.