India Solar Capacity: A Growing Solar Market
India’s current installed solar capacity reached an impressive 123.45 GW by the end of September 2024. This milestone, confirmed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), underscores the nation’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy sector.
According to the official report, solar power now accounts for a substantial portion of India’s total installed renewable capacity of 234.51 GW, making the country the fifth-largest globally in solar capacity.
This capacity includes 81.26 GW from ground-mounted projects, 15.75 GW from solar parks, 8.21 GW from rooftop installations, and 18.23 GW from off-grid and decentralized applications. This diversified approach demonstrates a strategic focus on scaling solar infrastructure across various platforms. Driven by proactive government policies, India’s solar sector is experiencing unprecedented expansion, solidifying its role as one of the fastest-growing markets in the world.
Expanding India’s Renewable Energy Portfolio
The MNRE report also highlights progress across the country’s broader renewable energy portfolio. As of September 2024, the total capacity of 234.51 GW included 51.77 GW from wind, 10.41 GW from bioenergy, 4.83 GW from small hydro projects, and 44.05 GW from large hydro projects. This diversity reflects a comprehensive approach to energy security and sustainability. For context, separate reports from April 2025 cite a total renewable capacity of 223.6 GW, as highlighted by PVKnowhow.
Despite this impressive growth, challenges remain in meeting the nation’s ambitious renewable energy targets. While India added a stunning 23.83 GW of solar capacity in FY 2024-25, according to PVKnowhow, reaching the 500 GW renewable energy goal by 2030 will require sustained and accelerated efforts. Projections from PVKnowhow indicate a potential addition of 85-90 GW of solar capacity by FY27. To address these challenges, the government is introducing new policies and incentives aimed at attracting further investment in the renewable energy sector.
Solar Power’s Role in India’s Sustainability Goals
The MNRE report emphasizes solar energy’s vital role in achieving India’s decarbonization goals. As a major component of the country’s non-fossil fuel-based power, solar is critical to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
The growth of India’s solar sector is crucial for its transition to a low-carbon economy, as expanding this capacity reduces the national carbon footprint while enhancing energy security. Reaching 123.45 GW of installed solar capacity by September 2024 marks a significant step on this renewable energy journey. A continued focus on solar power will be a key driver of India’s decarbonization efforts and its commitment to a sustainable future.
