India has emerged as third-largest country in renewable energy installed capacity globally, according to the latest data released by International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). With a total installed renewable capacity of 250.52 GW (December 2025), India has surpassed Brazil and now ranks behind only China and United States, reflecting its rapid transition towards clean energy and strong policy push. India surpassed Record addition of 55.3 GW non-fossil capacity in 2025–26 (highest ever).
Global Comparison
- China: 2,258.02 GW (1st)
- USA: 467.92 GW (2nd)
- India: 250.52 GW (3rd)
- Brazil: 228.20 GW (4th)
- Germany: 199.92 GW (5th)
Highlights India’s position as a major global clean energy player.
Power Generation & Energy Mix
India’s total electricity generation (2025–26): 1,845.921 BU
- Non-fossil share: 29.2% (538.97 BU)
- Achieved 50% installed capacity from non-fossil sources (June 2025): 5 years ahead of NDC target (2030)
- Peak achievement: 51.5% of electricity demand met by renewables (July 2025)
Installed Capacity Trends
- Total non-fossil capacity (March 2026): 283.46 GW
- Renewable energy: 274.68 GW
- Nuclear: 8.78 GW
Solar Energy
- Increased from 2.82 GW (2014) to 150.26 GW (2026) (50× growth)
- Record addition: 44.61 GW (2025–26)
- Driven by utility-scale + rooftop + PM-KUSUM scheme
Wind Energy
- Increased from 21.04 GW to 56.09 GW
Targets and Climate Commitments
As per announcements at COP26, India aims to:
- Achieve 500 GW non-fossil capacity by 2030
- Reach Net Zero by 2070
Updated NDC targets (2031–35):
- 47% reduction in emissions intensity
- 60% electricity capacity from non-fossil sources by 2035
- Carbon sink of 3.5–4 billion tonnes CO₂ equivalent
Government Initiatives Driving Renewable Energy Growth
- PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana– Rooftop solar expansion
- PM-KUSUM Scheme– Solar pumps (13.94 lakh installed in 2025–26)
- Green Energy Corridor– Transmission infrastructure
- FAME Scheme– Promotes EV adoption
- National Smart Grid Mission– Grid integration
- Green Hydrogen Mission– Future clean fuel
Challenges in Renewable Energy Sector
- Land acquisition issues for large projects
- Grid instability due to intermittent sources
- Limited energy storage capacity
- Rising solar panel & battery e-waste
- Dependence on imported critical minerals (lithium, cobalt)
- Policy and regulatory delays