India Surpasses 300 GW Renewable Energy Capacity, Sets Sights on 500 GW Milestone
India Accelerates its Renewable Energy Journey, Surpasses 300 GW Non-Fossil Fuel Capacity
India has achieved a significant milestone in its renewable energy journey, with its non-fossil fuel electricity generation capacity crossing the 300 GW mark. This achievement was announced by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, who expressed optimism about the nation's prospects of reaching its ambitious target of having 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030.
Addressing the 7th CII International Energy Conference & Exhibition in the capital, Minister Joshi highlighted the remarkable progress made in the renewable energy sector over the past two years. During this period, India added an impressive 90 GW of non-fossil fuel-based capacity, a testament to the nation's commitment to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
The Minister also drew attention to the remarkable growth in non-fossil fuel-based electricity generation capacity over the first six months of the year. A total of 30.58 GW of capacity was added between January and June, representing a 25 per cent increase compared to the corresponding period last year.
Industry Leaders Urged to Invest in Research and Development
Minister Joshi emphasized the need for industry leaders to invest more in research and development to further accelerate the growth of the renewable energy sector. He noted that the sector has the potential to create new opportunities for growth and innovation, and that increased investment in R&D would be crucial in unlocking these opportunities.
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana Reaches New Milestones
The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, a flagship scheme aimed at providing free electricity to households, has also achieved significant milestones. The scheme has already crossed the 50 lakh household mark, with one lakh households being added every six days. This has resulted in a significant increase in the number of households receiving zero electricity bills, with over 19 lakh households currently benefiting from the scheme.
Rooftop Solar Installations Experience Rapid Growth
The pace of rooftop solar installations has also accelerated significantly, with the number of installations increasing by over 3.2 times in just nine months. The number of installations per day has increased from 5,000 in October 2025 to over 16,328 in July 2026. This growth has resulted in a substantial increase in the number of households selling surplus electricity, with over 12 lakh households generating an average of Rs 3,500 per year in extra income.
Key Takeaways
- India's non-fossil fuel electricity generation capacity has crossed the 300 GW mark, putting the nation firmly on track to achieve its target of 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030.
- Over 90 GW of non-fossil fuel-based capacity was added in the last two years, with 30.58 GW being added in the first six months of the year.
- The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana has crossed the 50 lakh household mark, with one lakh households being added every six days.
- Rooftop solar installations have increased by over 3.2 times in just nine months, with over 19 lakh households receiving zero electricity bills.
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