Nextracker, a leading provider of intelligent solar trackers, foundations, and software solutions, has launched India’s inaugural Center for Solar Excellence (CFSE), covering an impressive 13 acres. This innovative facility is designed to propel advancements in solar tracker technology, significantly contributing to the region’s energy transition.
The CFSE boasts a 30,000 square foot lab, a complete solar tracker installation, and comprehensive training facilities addressing the entire project lifecycle, from structural and mechanical design to construction, operation, and maintenance. Collaborating closely with supply chain partners, customers, and third-party laboratories, Nextracker’s cross-functional experts will focus on developing, testing, and commercializing proprietary technologies.
Howard Wenger, President of Nextracker, emphasized the company’s commitment to enhancing solar technology in India. “With the new Center for Solar Excellence, we can better tailor our products to meet local customer needs. Nextracker has already delivered and fulfilled over 35 reliable utility-scale projects in India, totaling more than 5 GW of projects, achieving a remarkable 95% content under the Make in India initiative. Our aim is to develop high-performance solar trackers that significantly improve energy capture during critical peak periods,” he stated.
Minister of State for the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Shri Shripad Naik, lauded the establishment of the CFSE as a strategic move for India’s clean energy future. “This center’s cutting-edge R&D will facilitate innovation, making solar energy more affordable and accessible. As India aims to achieve its ambitious 2030 renewable energy targets, initiatives like these are vital for ensuring the reliability of our solar assets,” he remarked.
The CFSE will also significantly contribute to workforce development, offering PowerworX Academy training courses to regional engineering procurement and construction (EPC) companies and third-party installers. Seasoned instructors will provide hands-on training in best practices for the design, installation, commissioning, software integration, and operations and maintenance of advanced PV tracker systems.
Rajeev Kashyap, Senior Vice President and General Manager for India, Middle East, and Africa, highlighted the importance of high uptime for solar projects. “We are dedicated to delivering advanced technologies and services that empower stakeholders to optimize their asset performance. By leveraging local expertise and infrastructure, we aim to drive India and the surrounding markets towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future,” he stated.
Subrahmanyam Pulipaka, CEO of the National Solar Energy Federation of India, underscored the significance of focused R&D in accelerating solar energy deployment. “Nextracker’s facility will play a pivotal role in ensuring high-quality standards are upheld while driving the adoption of advanced solar solutions, ultimately aiding in achieving the country’s renewable energy goals,” he said.
Currently, 95% of Nextracker’s tracker components are manufactured in India, supported by local partnerships that enable over 10 GW of annual production capacity. Nextracker offers comprehensive support, including on-site project management and engineering, advanced software, and robotic cleaning solutions to maximize performance.
In addition to the CFSE, Nextracker operates R&D and test labs in Northern California and São Paulo, Brazil, providing comparable facilities to incubate and commercialize PV technologies tailored to regional needs.
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