Government Clarifies No Lending Freeze on Solar Financing Amid Oversupply Concerns

The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued a clarification dismissing reports that the government has directed financial institutions to stop lending to renewable energy projects. The clarification comes amid industry concerns about an emerging oversupply situation in India’s solar photovoltaic (PV) module market. According to MNRE, there has been no advisory instructing banks or financial agencies to freeze loans for renewable projects or manufacturing facilities. Instead, the ministry emphasized that the goal is to promote strategic and informed investment across the solar manufacturing value chain rather than over-concentration in standalone solar module units. The ministry confirmed sharing data on domestic solar manufacturing capacity with key financing entities such as PFC, REC, and IREDA. This information is meant to guide a calibrated lending approach that supports solar cell production and upstream segments such as ingots, wafers, polysilicon, and module components including solar glass and aluminium frames. India has reached 50% non-fossil fuel power capacity, ahead of its Paris commitment timeline, with 259 GW installed as of October 31, 2025—including 31.2 GW added so far in FY26. Industry concerns stem from a rapid expansion of module manufacturing capacity, especially geared toward U.S. exports. However, higher U.S. tariffs and scrutiny over China-linked components have slowed exports, aggravating oversupply risks. Projections suggest India’s module capacity could hit 200 GW, and solar cell capacity 100 GW in the coming years—well beyond domestic demand growth, especially as new solar project execution slows. MNRE reiterated its commitment to building a self-reliant solar ecosystem and positioning India as a major global player. Solar module capacity has surged from 2.3 GW in 2014 to 122 GW listed under the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) today—reflecting robust government and industry efforts. The ministry assured that it will continue to support the sector through policy initiatives, infrastructure strengthening, and innovation to ensure long-term competitiveness and future readiness.