Here’s a bold statement: One of India’s top solar powerhouses is defying the odds and doubling down on the U.S. market—even as it faces a high-stakes trade investigation. But here’s where it gets controversial... Is Waaree Energies, India’s leading solar module manufacturer, truly sidestepping U.S. tariffs, or is this just a misunderstanding? Let’s dive in.
In a move that’s turning heads, Waaree Energies is pushing forward with its U.S. expansion plans, despite U.S. customs officials probing whether the company mislabeled Chinese-made solar cells and panels as 'Made in India' to avoid tariffs. The company has flatly denied these claims, insisting the investigation is still in its early stages and hasn’t disrupted its operations. And this is the part most people miss: Waaree’s CEO, Amit Paithankar, remains unfazed, stating, 'We are fully cooperating with the authorities and furnishing all required documentation.' He adds, 'Internal assessments suggest the impact might be minimal. We’ll see how it evolves.'
What’s truly striking is Waaree’s unwavering commitment to the U.S. market. With a staggering 16.1 GW of module-making capacity in India and 2.6 GW in the U.S., the company is betting big on American demand, driven by sectors like data centers, manufacturing, and transportation. Here’s the kicker: The U.S. isn’t just another market for Waaree—it’s their biggest export destination, accounting for over half of their total revenue.
To solidify its U.S. presence, Waaree is exploring both organic and inorganic growth opportunities, including potential ventures into cell and battery energy storage systems. The company recently acquired a 1 GW module manufacturing line from Swiss firm Meyer Burger in Arizona and is expanding its Houston facility from 1.6 GW to 3.2 GW. By 2027, Waaree plans to add 10 GW each of solar cell and ingot-wafer manufacturing capacity, building on its existing 5.4 GW cell capacity.
But here’s the controversial question: Is Waaree’s aggressive expansion a testament to its confidence in its practices, or is it a calculated risk amid a looming trade dispute? And what does this mean for the broader solar industry, where tariffs and trade probes are becoming increasingly common? Let’s spark a conversation—do you think Waaree’s move is a bold strategic play or a risky gamble? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
