India has reached an inspiring new milestone in its journey toward renewable energy, with the nation's renewable energy capacity surpassing the 200 GW mark. This achievement aims for a more sustainable future, in alignment with the target of reaching 500 GW of renewable energy from non-fossil sources by 2030. According to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), India’s total renewable energy-based electricity generation capacity now stands at 203.18 GW as of October 2024, showcasing an impressive 13.5% increase from the previous year’s 178.98 GW. When combined with the 8,180 MW of nuclear energy capacity, India’s non-fossil fuel capacity reaches 211.36 GW, contributing nearly half of the country’s total 452.69 GW installed electricity generation capacity.
This significant achievement has been a result of India’s commitment to harnessing its abundant natural resources through a diverse array of renewable energy projects. Solar power is the leading source in this mix, with an installed capacity of 92.12 GW, followed by wind power, which has a capacity of 47.72 GW. Large-scale hydro projects contribute an additional 46.93 GW, while small hydro projects add 5.07 GW, showcasing the country’s adept use of its rivers and water systems. Bioenergy, comprising biomass and biogas, adds another 11.32 GW to the renewable mix, utilizing organic materials for power generation and adding further diversity to India’s energy portfolio.
These milestones signal India's shift from traditional fossil fuels to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources. Solar energy is pivotal in this transformation, given India’s abundant sunlight and extensive solar parks across the nation. The country’s expansive coastlines and inland regions also provide ideal settings for wind energy, which continues to grow. Hydropower and bioenergy initiatives support not only clean energy but also rural and agricultural development, as they leverage resources like agricultural waste for energy production. This strategic, multi-faceted approach has reduced India’s reliance on fossil fuels and has strengthened its energy security, enhancing its standing as a global advocate for renewable energy.
Beyond environmental benefits, India’s renewable energy sector has become a major driver of economic growth and employment. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) estimated that India’s renewable sector created approximately 1.02 million jobs in 2023 alone. This growth mirrors the global trend, with renewable energy employment expanding to 16.2 million jobs worldwide in 2023, up from 13.7 million in 2022.
Hydropower remains the top employer within India’s renewable sector, providing around 453,000 jobs, while the rapidly growing solar photovoltaic (PV) sector employed over 318,600 people, both in on-grid and off-grid capacities. India added 9.7 GW of solar PV capacity in 2023, positioning it among the top five countries globally for new installations, and its cumulative solar PV capacity now stands at 72.7 GW.
The wind sector, employing over 52,200 people, has also contributed significantly to the renewable job market, with roles ranging from operations and maintenance to construction and installation. Additionally, bioenergy initiatives have created thousands of jobs, utilizing resources like biomass and biogas. The diversity of employment opportunities within the renewable sector demonstrates its far-reaching economic impact, from rural communities to urban centers, making it a cornerstone of India’s green transition.
India’s commitment to climate action extends beyond energy generation to ambitious climate goals under the Paris Agreement. The country’s enhanced Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) reflect this commitment, targeting a 45% reduction in emissions intensity by 2030 compared to 2005 levels, achieving 50% of its total electric power capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030, and promoting eco-friendly practices through the ‘LIFE’ (Lifestyle for Environment) movement. India has also committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, supported by a long-term low-carbon development strategy submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
In the renewable energy race, several Indian states have emerged as leaders. Rajasthan is at the forefront with 29.98 GW of installed renewable capacity, attributed to its abundant sunlight and land resources. Gujarat follows with 29.52 GW, driven by its strong solar and wind initiatives, while Tamil Nadu, known for favorable wind conditions, holds 23.7 GW. Karnataka rounds out the top four with 22.37 GW, benefitting from a balanced mix of solar and wind power.
India's success in renewable energy is highlighted by proactive government initiatives, such as the National Green Hydrogen Mission, PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan), PM Surya Ghar, and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes for solar PV modules. These initiatives aim to scale up clean energy production, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and position India as a global leader in sustainable energy.
With its milestone of over 200 GW of renewable energy capacity and clear targets for future growth, India is well on its way to achieving its ambitious 2030 goals. This progress marks not only a transition to a cleaner energy landscape but also a comprehensive strategy to address climate change and energy security.
