India is rapidly transforming its energy landscape, making remarkable strides in renewable energy with a keen focus on solar and wind power, and a strategic eye on the future with green hydrogen. The nation’s commitment to clean energy is not just an environmental endeavor but also an economic powerhouse, attracting significant investment and creating jobs.
Surging Ahead: Capacity Growth and Key Players
As of May 31, 2025, India’s total renewable energy capacity has soared to approximately 226,750.77 MW. This impressive figure is largely bolstered by the phenomenal growth in solar power, which stands at 110,834.28 MW, encompassing both ground-mounted and grid-connected rooftop installations. Wind power is also a significant contributor at 51,292.25 MW. Other renewable sources like small hydro, biomass, and waste-to-energy projects are also playing their part in this green transition. Large hydro power adds another substantial 47,928.17 MW to the clean energy mix.
Solar Dominance: Lighting Up a Nation
Solar energy is undoubtedly leading India’s renewable charge. The nation’s solar capacity has expanded to 110,834.28 MW, with 84,430 MW coming from utility-scale ground-mounted plants and 18,370 MW from grid-connected rooftop solar. The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY), launched in February 2024, has been a game-changer for rooftop solar, facilitating 7 lakh installations within just ten months. The off-grid solar segment also saw a remarkable 182% increase, adding 1.48 GW in 2024.
Wind Power’s Momentum
Wind energy continues to be a vital component of India’s renewable portfolio. In 2024, India added 3.4 GW of new wind capacity, with Gujarat (1,250 MW), Karnataka (1,135 MW), and Tamil Nadu (980 MW) leading the charge in new installations. These states are instrumental in harnessing the country’s vast wind potential.
Policy Power: Driving the Green Agenda
India’s ambitious renewable energy goals are underpinned by a robust framework of policies and schemes:
- National Green Hydrogen Mission: Launched in January 2023, this mission aims to establish India as a global hub for green hydrogen, targeting 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) annual capacity by 2030. This initiative is expected to attract substantial investments and create 6 lakh jobs.
- PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana: This flagship scheme is designed to provide free rooftop solar electricity to 1 crore households, promoting widespread adoption through subsidies and accessible loan options.
- Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Solar PV Modules: To foster domestic manufacturing of high-efficiency solar modules, the government has allocated Rs. 19,500 crore (US$2.35 billion) under Tranche-II, aiming to establish 39,600 MW of manufacturing capacity.
Strengthening the Grid: Green Energy Corridors
To ensure efficient power distribution from renewable-rich regions, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is heavily investing in Green Energy Corridors. These inter-state transmission systems are crucial for evacuating power from states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh, guaranteeing reliable and stable electricity supply across the nation.
Ambitious Targets and Tangible Progress
India is on an accelerated path to achieving its ambitious renewable energy targets. The nation aims for 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2030. As of March 2025, the installed renewable energy capacity is projected to reach 170 GW, a significant jump from 135 GW in December 2023, showcasing consistent progress towards these goals.
States like Rajasthan are at the forefront of utility-scale solar, while Gujarat is making significant contributions to both solar and wind energy. Tamil Nadu continues to be a top performer in wind energy additions.
Economic Boom and Environmental Responsibility
The renewable energy sector in India is poised to attract over US$ 250 billion in investments by 2030, driven by solar PV projects and battery manufacturing, highlighting its immense economic potential. Beyond economic gains, India is committed to environmental sustainability, aiming to reduce carbon intensity by less than 45% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
Conclusion: A Brighter, Greener Future
India’s renewable energy initiatives are not just making an impact—they’re setting a global example. With ambitious targets, robust policy support, increasing investments, and continuous technological advancements, the country is well-positioned to become a global leader in clean energy. While challenges remain in regulation, financing, and infrastructure, the unwavering focus on overcoming them ensures a sustainable and prosperous future for India.
