SWELECT Energy Systems Ltd, a leader in renewable energy solutions, has appointed Dr. Arulkumar Shanmugasundaram as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director. This strategic leadership change marks an important milestone in the company’s continued growth.
Following decades of exceptional leadership, R Chellappan will transition to the role of Vice Chairman, continuing to provide strategic oversight and ensuring that SWELECT’s core principles, integrity, and culture remain central to its future. Dr Shanmugasundaram brings over 30 years of international experience in technology, manufacturing, and renewable energy. He most recently served as Executive Director (Operations) at Ayana Renewable Power, where he led efforts in business development, engineering, technology, IT, and asset management. Under his leadership, Ayana expanded to a 5 GW portfolio, including over 2.5 GW of operational assets, which were acquired in a $2.3 billion deal by NTPC Green and ONGC Green.
Before joining Ayana, Dr Shanmugasundaram was the Chief Operating Officer at Tata Power Solar Systems, where he guided the company’s transformation into a prominent EPC solutions provider specializing in utility-scale, rooftop, and pump-based solar projects. Dr Shanmugasundaram’s career began at Applied Materials in Silicon Valley, where he spent 15 years contributing to semiconductor equipment development and establishing a thin-film a-Si production line in India. He holds a Master’s and Ph.D from Cornell University, USA, and is an alumnus of IIT Madras. His combination of academic excellence and extensive industry experience positions him perfectly to lead SWELECT into its next chapter.
R Chellappan, reflecting on the appointment, said, “We are excited to welcome Dr Shanmugasundaram to SWELECT. His leadership, broad experience, and deep commitment to renewable energy will be invaluable as we expand SWELECT’s capabilities across Solar Manufacturing, EPC, and IPP sectors. This marks a harmonious balance between our legacy and our commitment to the future of clean energy.”
Dr Shanmugasundaram accepting the position, commented, “It is both a privilege and a great responsibility to carry forward the legacy that Mr Chellappan has established. SWELECT is well-positioned with a strong financial foundation, high-quality assets, and established customer trust. With our proven leadership in the UPS industry under the Numeric brand, SWELECT is prepared to offer the BESS systems the renewable energy sector requires. I am eager to drive profitable growth while balancing the interests of all stakeholders—customers, employees, and investors.”
With Dr Shanmugasundaram at the helm and Mr.Chellappan’s ongoing guidance, SWELECT is set to accelerate its innovations, expand its operations, and solidify its leadership across the renewable energy landscape. Founded in 1984, SWELECT Energy Systems Ltd is a recognized leader in the solar energy sector, with a strong global presence. The company specializes in solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, module mounting structures (MMS), and power conditioning units and offers engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services. SWELECT’s advanced manufacturing facilities and technical expertise highlight its commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable energy solutions.
The company also carries forward the legacy of Numeric, India’s top UPS solutions brand, under which it developed deep expertise in power electronics and battery energy systems over the past two decades. In 2012, SWELECT transitioned from the Numeric brand to focus exclusively on the solar energy market, marking its evolution from “Power to Energy” and establishing itself as a trusted name in the renewable energy industry.
