India Achieves Historic Milestone in Power Sector: Surpasses 500 GW Installed Capacity and Renewable Generation Exceeds 50% of Demand

IN NEWS — India Achieves Historic Milestone in Power Sector: Surpasses 500 GW Installed Capacity and Renewable Generation Exceeds 50% of Demand

ANALYSIS

1. Context:
   • India’s power sector has achieved two major milestones, marking a decisive step toward a clean, secure, and self-reliant energy future.
   • As of 30 September 2025, the nation’s total installed electricity capacity has crossed the 500 GW mark, reaching 500.89 GW.
2. Break-up of India’s Power Capacity:
   • Non-fossil fuel sources: 256.09 GW (over 51%)
     • Solar Power – 127.33 GW
     • Wind Power – 53.12 GW
     • Hydro and Nuclear included in total non-fossil capacity.
   • Fossil-fuel-based sources: 244.80 GW (about 49%).
3. Capacity Additions (April–September 2025):
   • Non-fossil capacity: Added 28 GW.
   • Fossil-fuel capacity: Added 5.1 GW.
   • Indicates a strong shift toward clean energy.
4. Record Renewable Generation Day:
   • On 29 July 2025, India recorded its highest-ever renewable energy share in electricity generation, with renewables meeting 51.5% of total electricity demand (203 GW).
   • Breakdown:
     • Solar – 44.50 GW
     • Wind – 29.89 GW
     • Hydro – 30.29 GW
   • This marked the first time that over half of India’s power came from green sources in a single day.
5. Achievement of National Target Ahead of Time:
   • India has met one of its COP26 “Panchamrit” goals — to achieve 50% of installed electric power capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030 — five years early.
   • The milestone demonstrates India’s global leadership in clean energy transition while maintaining grid stability.
6. Significance:
   • Boosts India’s status as a global clean energy leader.
   • Contributes to climate action commitments and reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
   • Generates employment opportunities in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and renewable innovation — especially benefiting rural and urban youth.
7. Acknowledgement:
   • The Ministry of Power and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) congratulated generation companies, transmission utilities, system operators, and state agencies for contributing to this achievement.

STATIC PART

• Total Installed Capacity (as of Sept 2025): 500.89 GW
• Non-Fossil Share: 51% (256.09 GW)
• Fossil-Fuel Share: 49% (244.80 GW)
• Key Renewable Contributors: Solar (127.33 GW), Wind (53.12 GW), Hydro, Nuclear
• Record Renewable Share (29 July 2025): 51.5% of total demand (203 GW)
• COP26 Panchamrit Goal: 50% installed capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030 — achieved 5 years early
• Nodal Ministries: Ministry of Power, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)

Updated – 29 Oct 2025 ; 6:16 PM | PIB

Source: Press Information Bureau