Early Life and Education
Manoj Upadhyay's early education was in Kolkata. He holds a Diploma in Electronics Engineering from Government Polytechnic, Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, which laid the foundation for his remarkable journey of innovation and leadership.
Rise to Success
In 2003, Upadhyay founded ACME Cleantech Solutions Pvt. Ltd., focusing on energy management solutions for telecom towers. Recognizing the potential of solar energy, he pivoted to solar in 2008 and established ACME Solar Holdings Ltd. in 2015. His early bet on solar power propelled him into the ranks of the world's richest, with his and his family's fortune estimated around $1.1 billion at the time of Acme Solar Holdings Ltd.'s listing in November 2024. Upadhyay's pioneering efforts have also had a transformative impact on the solar energy sector, achieving a historic low solar electricity tariff of INR 2.44 per kWh in India. Under his leadership, ACME Group has become a leading solar power developer, boasting a portfolio of ~7.4 GW.
Key Business Strategies
Upadhyay's key strategies have involved innovating in the energy sector, particularly in solar energy and storage solutions. His innovations have significantly reduced the cost of energy infrastructure, helping lower energy costs. The company is focused on renewable electricity, Green Hydrogen, Green Ammonia, sustainable food and water. He is also developing green energy projects in India, Oman and the U.S..
Philanthropy
Manoj Upadhyay supports emerging start-ups, helping them scale and achieve their potential. Specific amounts are unavailable. Upadhyay believes in creating a corporate culture that actively demonstrates respect and inclusion for its multi-generational workforce.
