India crosses 200 gigawatt level in renewable energy capacity: Centre
New Delhi| Based on the data, the Central Government has claimed that India has increased its solar capacity tremendously. India has surpassed the 200 gigawatt level in renewable energy capacity, which is more than 46.3 per cent of the country’s total installed capacity.
According to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), the total renewable energy based power generation capacity is now 203.18 gigawatts. The country aims to achieve 500 gigawatts from non-fossil sources by 2030.
The solar energy sector saw the highest growth with 92.12 gigawatts. Wind power also took second place with 47.72 gigawatts, reflecting the growing capacity of Coastal and Inland (Coastal and Inland) Wind Corridors nationwide.
According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, “Hydroelectric power is also a major contributor, with large hydro projects producing 46.93 gigawatts and small hydro power producing 5.07 gigawatts”. These projects provide a reliable and sustainable source of energy from India’s rivers and water systems”
Biopower, including biomass and biogas energy, adds another 11.32 gigawatts to the Renewable Energy mix.
The country’s total renewable energy installed capacity has increased by 24.2 gigawatts (13.5 percent) in just one year, reaching 203.18 gigawatts in October 2024. Last year in October 2023, it was 178.98 gigawatts.
On the inclusion of nuclear power, India’s total non-fossil fuel capacity increased to 211.36 gigawatts in 2024 compared to 186.46 gigawatts in 2023, according to the ministry.
According to the ministry, “This achievement reflects India’s growing commitment to clean energy and its progress in building a green future”. The ministry said this represents a major change in the country’s energy landscape, reflecting the country’s growing dependence on clean, non-fossil fuel-based energy sources.
Taking into account 8,180 megawatts (MW) of nuclear capacity, total non-fossil fuel-based power now accounts for about half of the country’s installed power generation capacity, indicating a strong move towards clean energy leadership on the global stage. India’s total power generation capacity has reached 452.69 gigawatts, with renewable energy forming a significant part of the electricity mix.
In 2023, India’s renewable energy sector will achieve a significant milestone, with an estimated 1.02 million jobs created, according to the 2024 annual review by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The global renewable energy workforce grew to 16.2 million in 2023 from 13.7 million in 2022, in which India has a key role.
This report, prepared in collaboration with the International Labor Union (ILO), reflects India’s growing efforts in clean energy and our commitment to increase green job opportunities that promote economic growth.
