India’s renewable energy sector progress has been nothing short of astonishing. In the 1 st quarter of fiscal year FY25, it’s broken records by adding over 25 gigawatts (GW) of capacity. As of September this year, India’s cumulative renewable energy capacity (not including large hydro) crossed 197GW. This momentum positions India to surpass the significant milestone of 200GW in the coming months, reflecting the nation’s commitment to expanding its clean energy portfolio.
Among the various renewable energy technologies, the growth of solar energy in India has been especially remarkable. The country’s solar capacity has exploded from just 3GW in 2014 to a whopping 127GW today. Such remarkable growth further highlights the country’s growing dependence on solar energy, which is proving to be a key pillar of India’s renewable energy plan. Apart from solar, wind power plays an important role in India’s renewable energy scenario, with a cumulative capacity of 53GW.
Capacity Growth and Future Projections
In FY25, India continued to strengthen its renewable energy sector by installing a phenomenal 29GW. The latter includes 4.2GW of solar net additions in the ongoing FY23, and 3.3GW in FY24. Analysts estimate the sector will add a stunning 35GW of new capacity over the next three years (FY26). This achievement will ensure further entrenchment of its proactive role in India’s energy mix. Renewable sources are growing at record speed, matching the accelerated global movement toward cleaner, healthier energy options. This recent uptick is another testament to India’s ambitious approach to combat climate change with urgency.
The government’s ambitious plans involve not only expanding capacity but opening the retail electricity market to private companies nationwide. This change is expected to increase competition in the industry and spur innovation. Yet, these earlier efforts to liberalize the market encountered fierce pushback from state-owned distribution companies.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
While the overall picture is encouraging, much more must be done to build a bridge to a renewable energy future. This widespread opposition from state actors during past attempted liberations of the market foreshadows great obstacles ahead. The steadfast, continued addition of capacity and investment presents a strong picture of a bright future for renewable energy projects in India.
Simultaneously, the government is working to accelerate the expansion of renewable energy capacity. This program builds on a larger, whole of government approach to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and advance energy security. By investing in solar and wind technologies, India is positioning itself as a leader in the global transition to sustainable energy solutions.