Clean energy: India’s renewable surge

One sector where India has consistently delivered, despite persistent challenges, is its push for green energy. The renewable energy journey has now reached a crescendo, with the country clocking record levels of renewable energy generation this year. With a record addition of 44.5 GW of renewable capacity till November, the country has not only achieved its highest-ever annual expansion but has also crossed a major milestone: non-fossil fuel sources now account for over half of the total installed electricity capacity. At 262.74 GW, non-fossil capacity constitutes 51.55 per cent of India’s installed power capacity, meeting its Paris Agreement target five years ahead of schedule. Solar power has been the clear engine of this transformation. Nearly 35 GW of solar capacity was added in 2025, pushing total installations to 132.85 GW — an increase of over 40 per cent in just one year. Wind energy also made steady gains, with capacity rising to nearly 54 GW. India now ranks among global leaders in renewable energy, standing third in solar power capacity and fourth in wind and overall renewable capacity. In July, renewable energy met over half of India’s total electricity demand on a single day — an accomplishment worth cherishing. Government policy initiatives have played a crucial role in this progress. Schemes such as PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana and PM-KUSUM have expanded rooftop solar and decentralised generation. The National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to make electricity a clean industrial energy source. Growth in domestic solar manufacturing, reforms in wind energy policy, and the launch of geothermal energy initiatives have further strengthened the ecosystem.

While this is a moment to be proud of, there is still a long way to go to make the transition truly sustainable and cost-effective. Technological challenges remain daunting. Weaknesses in grid infrastructure, storage capacity, and transmission networks need urgent attention. Without sufficient battery storage, pumped hydro, and flexible grid management, renewable energy cannot become a fully reliable power source. Land acquisition issues, delays in transmission projects, and financial stress in power distribution companies continue to haunt the sector.

Another major concern is India’s dependence on imports for key components, especially in advanced solar technologies and battery materials. The road to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030 will therefore require more than record-breaking installations. It demands massive investment in grids, storage solutions, and forecasting technologies to improve efficiency. Regulatory clarity, long-term policy consistency, and faster project clearances will be essential to sustain investor confidence. India’s renewable energy push is no longer a choice; it is a strategic necessity. Clean, green energy offers resilience against climate risks and greater energy security. The achievements of 2025, though encouraging, are not sufficient in themselves. The challenge now is to maintain the momentum to achieve a reliable and inclusive energy future.