India’s Renewable Energy Capacity Soars by 165% in a Decade

India’s renewable energy capacity has surged by 165% over the past decade, increasing from 76.38 GW in 2014 to 203.1 GW in 2024, according to Union Minister Pralhad Joshi. This growth positions India as the fourth largest globally in renewable energy capacity, with significant advancements in solar and wind power.

Solar Energy Expansion

Solar energy capacity has seen a dramatic increase, rising from 2.82 GW in March 2014 to 85.47 GW by June 2024, marking an approximate 30-fold growth.

Global Rankings

India now ranks fourth globally in total renewable energy installed capacity, fourth in wind power capacity, and fifth in solar PV capacity.

Diverse Renewable Sources

For the first time, India’s capacity from non-fossil fuel sources has crossed 200 GW, including:

• 85.47 GW of solar power
• 46.93 GW of large hydro
• 46.66 GW of wind power
• 10.95 GW of biopower
• 5.00 GW of small hydropower

Necessity for Sustainable Growth

Joshi emphasized that renewable energy is essential for India’s sustainable growth and development, noting that the country has one of the fastest growth rates in the renewable energy sector among large economies.