India achieved remarkable progress in renewable energy in 2024, with record-breaking solar and wind capacity additions, policy reforms, and infrastructure upgrades. As the country targets 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy by 2030, its focus on domestic manufacturing, green hydrogen, and grid infrastructure positions it as a global leader in the clean energy transition.
India’s Renewable Energy Revolution: 2024 Achievements & 2025 Roadmap
Growth in Renewable Energy: Overview
- Accelerating Transition to Sustainability: India’s renewable energy (RE) sector saw remarkable growth in 2024, with advancements in solar and wind energy, supportive policies, and infrastructural upgrades. These developments set a strong foundation for ambitious goals in 2025.
- Global Leadership in Clean Energy: Committed to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030, India is positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy. As of January 20, 2025, the total non-fossil fuel energy capacity reached 217.62 GW.
Key Achievements in 2024
Solar Energy Expansion
- Record Installations: Added 24.5 GW of solar capacity in 2024, doubling the installations from 2023.
- Utility-Scale Solar Growth: Achieved 18.5 GW of utility-scale solar capacity, a 2.8x increase compared to 2023.
- Top-Performing States: Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu contributed 71% of the total utility-scale solar installations.
- Rooftop Solar Surge: Installed 4.59 GW of rooftop solar capacity, marking a 53% increase over 2023. The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana facilitated 7 lakh rooftop solar installations in ten months.
- Off-Grid Solar Growth: Recorded a 182% increase in off-grid solar capacity, adding 1.48 GW, significantly improving rural energy access.
Wind Energy Advancements
- Capacity Additions: Installed 3.4 GW of new wind capacity in 2024, reflecting a 21% rise compared to 2023.
- Leading States: Gujarat (1,250 MW), Karnataka (1,135 MW), and Tamil Nadu (980 MW) collectively accounted for 98% of the additions.
Policy And Infrastructure Support
- Green Hydrogen Development: Focused on developing green hydrogen policies to reduce production costs and attract investments.
- Domestic Manufacturing Boost: Scaled up manufacturing of solar PVs and wind turbines to strengthen India’s position as a global renewable energy manufacturing hub.
- Grid Infrastructure Investments: Allocated significant funds to enhance inter-state transmission systems, facilitating power evacuation from renewable-rich states such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.
Road Ahead In 2025
- Addressing Challenges: Overcoming regulatory, financial, and infrastructural hurdles will be essential for continued progress.
- Focus on Emerging Technologies: Emphasizing innovations like green hydrogen and advanced storage solutions will play a pivotal role in achieving long-term goals.
- Strengthening Leadership in Clean Energy: With consistent policy support and increased investments, India is well on its way to meeting ambitious renewable energy targets and becoming a global pioneer in the clean energy transition.