India has long depended on coal, oil, and natural gas for energy, causing environmental issues like air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and raising energy security concerns due to finite fossil fuels. The shift towards renewable energy has recently gained momentum, driven by technology, policy support, and climate commitments.
Renewable energy is now a key part of India's sustainable development, moving towards cleaner power generation. As of May 31, 2024, the country's cumulative installed renewable capacity reached 193,579 MW, about 43.52% of the total 444,756 MW installed capacity.
Coal remains the top energy source in India, accounting for 55% of total energy consumption in 2024, but this reliance causes significant environmental challenges like high greenhouse gas emissions and severe air pollution. The growing energy demands and impacts of conventional energy highlight the urgent need to transition to renewable energy for sustainable growth and energy security.
Renewable energy sources in India
The country has reached an impressive 193,579 MW of renewable energy which is approx. 43.52% of total installed capacity. The following points are important to understand with reference to renewable energy sources in India.
Renewable Energy include RES plus Hydro Power
RES include SHP, BP, U&I, Solar and Wind Energy
Solar Power includes Ground Mounted Solar, Rooftop Solar, Hybrid Solar Comp. and Off-grid Solar/ KUSUM
Biomass Power includes BM Power/Cogeneration & Waste to Energy
(SHP-Small Hydro Project (< 25 MW), BP-Biomass Power, U&I=Urban & Industrial Waste Power, RES=Renewable Energy Sources) The breakup of contribution of all sources are depicted in figure 3 below.
Solar energy
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