Billionaire Profile
Manoj Upadhyay
Global Rank
#2456

Image: Department of Information & Public Relations, Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Government of India | GODL-India | via Wikimedia Commons

Manoj Upadhyay

CEO, Solar energy
INDIA
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.677B
Estimated based on Solar energy stock value as of April 20, 2026
-1.92% (24h)
Age
55
Source
Solar energy
Industry
Energy
Citizenship
INDIA

Biography

Manoj Upadhyay, a self-made billionaire, is the Chairman of Acme Solar Holdings, a leading solar energy company based in Gurgaon, India. With a net worth of $1.4 billion (as of March 24, 2026), Upadhyay's wealth stems primarily from his ventures in the solar energy sector. His career began in the energy management sector and later pivoted to solar power in 2008. Upadhyay's achievements include establishing Acme as a major player in India's renewable energy landscape. His vision centers on building the next generation of utilities through sustainable green energy solutions.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Manoj Kumar Upadhyay's early education took place in Kolkata. He later joined German telecom power company Benning in 1995, where he learned the need for innovation and reliability. Upadhyay holds a Diploma in Electronics Engineering and has pursued further education, including a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) from UPTU Lucknow, a Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) from DR. RML Awadh University, a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from IIT Kanpur, and a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from SMU DE.

Rise to Success

Upadhyay's entrepreneurial journey began in 1999, after identifying the need for energy-saving solutions in the telecom industry. He founded Acme Tele Power in 2003, focusing on energy management solutions for cell towers. This venture saw rapid growth. In 2008, Upadhyay shifted his focus to solar energy. He is developing green energy projects in India, Oman, and the U.S.

Key Business Strategies

Upadhyay's business philosophy centers on disruption and a larger purpose beyond profits. He emphasizes the importance of innovation, with a hands-on approach to technical and execution aspects. His strategic decisions, including pivoting to solar energy and building a complete value chain, have been instrumental in Acme Solar's growth. The company's recent IPO in November 2024 also played a key role in his success. Upadhyay's focus on cost competitiveness and technological advancements has driven Acme Solar's success in the competitive solar energy market.

Philanthropy

While specific details of Manoj Upadhyay's philanthropic endeavors are not readily available in the search results, he emphasizes the satisfaction derived from 'helping people, helping society in whatever small form we can'.

Career Milestones

2003

Founded ACME Tele Power

Launched Acme Tele Power to provide energy management solutions for telecom companies.

2008

Pivoted to Solar Energy

Shifted focus to solar energy, recognizing the potential for renewable power.

2010

Founded ACME Solar Holdings

Established a company to develop and operate solar, wind, and solar-wind hybrid power projects across India.

2012

Commissioned First Solar Plant

Commissioned a 2.5 MW solar plant in Bikaner, Rajasthan.

2024

Acme Solar Holdings IPO

Acme Solar Holdings went public on the Mumbai stock exchange.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

General

Not Specified

$0

Information on specific initiatives unavailable, but focus is on societal impact.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Making my first million was great. After that, the next million feels normal. The real satisfaction comes from helping people, helping society in whatever small form we can."

"Making money does not motivate him at all. If an idea isn't 'disruptive', he is not interested in it; let someone else do it. Whatever he pursues must have 'meaning beyond business expectations and profits, it must have a larger purpose'."

Leadership Principles

Innovation

Emphasizes the need for innovative and disruptive ideas.

Long-Term Vision

Focuses on building the next generation of utilities.

Cost Competitiveness

Being very cost competitive with the bid.