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SAEL Moves UPERC for Power Cost Waivers to Set Up Solar Cell Plant in UP Photograph: (AI)
Indian clean tech compant SAEL Solar is looking to set up a large solar cell manufacturing facility in Uttar Pradesh—but the plan comes with a clear caveat: affordable and predictable power for its proposed solar cell facility. The company has approached the Uttar Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (UPERC), seeking a set of key exemptions on power-related charges that it says are critical to making the project viable. 
At the centre of SAEL’s proposal is a 5 GW solar cell manufacturing unit, along with a downstream 5 GW module facility. The project, which could see an investment of around ₹8,000 crore, is expected to be highly energy-intensive, making electricity costs a decisive factor in its competitiveness.
To address this, SAEL wants relief from transmission, wheeling and banking charges on power generated through its proposed captive solar project. It has also sought flexibility in using banked power at any time, without restrictions tied to peak or non-peak hours.
The company’s argument is straightforward: solar cell manufacturing is a cost-sensitive business, and power forms a large share of operating expenses. Without stable and lower-cost electricity, competing with global manufacturers—many of whom benefit from government support—becomes difficult. 
SAEL has also asked for approval to set up a captive power plant with energy storage and to install capacity beyond the usual regulatory limits, anticipating higher electricity demand for its operations. 
The UPERC, while noting that the reliefs sought could go beyond the current regulatory framework, has admitted the petition and asked state utilities to respond. The next hearing is scheduled for June 9, 2026.
The outcome of the case could have wider implications. As India pushes to scale up domestic solar manufacturing, the question of power costs—and how far regulators are willing to go in supporting industry—may increasingly shape where and how such large projects take off.
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