In Short : India’s renewable energy capacity reached 205 GW in 2024, driven by ambitious government targets, declining technology costs, private sector investments, and infrastructure expansion. Key factors include the rise of solar and wind energy, international partnerships, green energy corridors, and climate-focused policies. This milestone underscores India’s commitment to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.
In Detail : India’s renewable energy capacity achieved a remarkable milestone of 205 GW by the end of 2024, marking significant progress in the country’s transition to clean energy. This achievement is part of India’s ambitious roadmap to meet its target of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 and its net-zero emissions goal by 2070.
The surge in capacity has been fueled by robust government policies and initiatives. These include the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes for manufacturing solar modules and batteries, state-level subsidies, and investments in green hydrogen technologies. Additionally, India’s renewable energy policies have attracted significant interest from both domestic and international investors.
Solar and wind energy have been key drivers of this growth. Solar energy dominates India’s renewable landscape, with vast solar parks like Bhadla in Rajasthan setting benchmarks globally. Meanwhile, wind energy projects, both onshore and offshore, have continued to expand, leveraging India’s geographical advantages.
Technological advancements and cost reductions have played a vital role in scaling renewable projects. The declining costs of photovoltaic panels and improved energy storage solutions have made renewable energy more accessible and economically viable. Infrastructure development, such as green energy corridors, has further facilitated efficient energy transmission and integration.
Private sector participation has also been a major contributor, with conglomerates like Adani Green Energy, Tata Power, and Reliance Industries heavily investing in renewable energy projects. International collaborations, such as those through the International Solar Alliance (ISA), have provided technical expertise and financial support, accelerating the transition.
India’s focus on renewable energy is driven by the need for energy security, reduced dependence on fossil fuel imports, and climate change mitigation. The achievement of 205 GW is a significant step toward transforming India into a global leader in sustainable energy while addressing critical environmental and economic challenges.