BHEL to set up solar photo voltaic module manufacturing unit

BHEL is contemplating to set up a total integrated plant starting from poly-silicon to photo-voltaic (PV) systems including silicon wafer, solar cell and module, involving an investment of approx. Rs. 2,000 Crore, minister for heavy industries and public enterprises, Praful Patel informed the parliament today.

However, as the indigenous manufacturing capacities set up by other domestic manufacturers are being grossly under-utilized due to cheaper imports from China, BHEL's investment plans have been put on hold.

However, the BHEL Board has recently approved, in-principle, a proposal for manufacturing PV modules. Future investments will be made after a incentive for domestic industry are put in place by the Government.

To check Chinese domination in this sector, Directorate General of Anti-Dumping & Allied Duties, ministry of commerce & industry has issued a notification dated 23.11.2012 regarding "Initiation of Anti-Dumping Investigation concerning imports of Solar Cells whether or not assembled partially or fully in Modules or Panels or on glass or some other suitable substrates, originating in or exported from Malaysia, China PR, Chinese Taipei and USA.""