CEL Commissions 200 MW Solar Module Manufacturing Line

Central Electronics Limited (CEL)’s 200 MW solar module manufacturing line in Uttar Pradesh (UP) has been formally commissioned. The project was inaugurated by the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State for PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Jitendra Singh. CEL is a central government owned PSU, whose divestment was aborted back in 2022.

Highlighting the speedy project implementation, the minister noted that the CEL floated the Request for Proposal (RFP) on 24 April 2025. It selected the bidders within one month, and the manufacturing facility became operational in less than a year.

CEL Expands Technology And Innovation Initiatives

Jitendra Singh also welcomed the technology transfer initiatives involving CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories and Central Electronics Limited for the Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS) and the new-generation Drishti Transmissometer System. He said technologies developed in national laboratories must increasingly move towards commercialisation and public use through industry partnerships.

The minister expressed satisfaction that the new-generation Drishti Transmissometer System has now become fully indigenous and said such technologies strengthen national confidence, manufacturing capability, and self-reliance.

CEL Reinvents Itself Beyond Solar Manufacturing

Recalling CEL’s history, the minister said India’s first solar cell was manufactured by Central Electronics Limited in 1977, while the country’s first solar plant was established by the organisation in 1979. He remarked that CEL’s transformation from an institution once on the verge of disinvestment into a profit-making, revenue-generating Mini Ratna enterprise is a remarkable example of institutional revival.

Jitendra Singh said CEL is now expanding into future-oriented sectors, including vertical-axis wind turbines, hybrid renewable systems, data centres, advanced defence electronics, electronic warfare, and small weapon systems, reflecting India’s growing technological confidence and preparedness.

Referring to the government’s policy reforms in sectors, the minister said India has opened sectors such as space and nuclear energy to greater private participation and is moving ahead with ambitious plans involving advanced nuclear technologies and small modular reactors.