India’s Renewable Energy Growth in 2024
As India strives for a sustainable future, its renewable energy sector is experiencing remarkable growth. In 2024, the country made significant advancements in solar and wind energy installations, policy reforms, and infrastructure improvements. These developments set the stage for ambitious targets in 2025. India aims to achieve 500 gigawatts (GW) of non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2030. As of January 20, 2025, the total non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity in India has reached 217.62 GW. This article explores the key developments in India’s renewable energy sector in 2024 and the implications for the future.
Record Growth in Solar and Wind Energy
In 2024, India added a record-breaking 24.5 GW of solar capacity and 3.4 GW of wind capacity. This represents a more than twofold increase in solar installations and a 21% rise in wind installations compared to 2023. The surge in solar energy was driven by government incentives, policy reforms, and increased investments in domestic solar and wind turbine manufacturing. Solar energy emerged as the dominant contributor to India’s renewable energy growth, accounting for 47% of the total installed renewable energy capacity.
The year also saw the installation of 18.5 GW of utility-scale solar capacity, nearly 2.8 times more than in 2023. Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu were the top-performing states, contributing 71% of India’s total utility-scale solar installations. This impressive growth reflects the government’s commitment to promoting renewable energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. As India continues to invest in solar energy, it is well on its way to becoming a global leader in clean energy.
Expansion of Rooftop Solar and Off-Grid Solutions
The rooftop solar sector experienced significant growth in 2024, with 4.59 GW of new capacity installed. This marks a 53% increase from the previous year. The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, launched in 2024, played a crucial role in this expansion. The initiative facilitated 700,000 rooftop solar installations within just ten months. This program aims to make solar energy accessible to more households, especially in rural areas.
Additionally, the off-grid solar segment recorded a remarkable 182% increase, adding 1.48 GW in 2024. This growth is vital for advancing energy access goals in rural regions, where traditional energy sources are often limited. By promoting rooftop and off-grid solar solutions, India is not only enhancing energy access but also empowering communities to harness renewable energy for their needs. This focus on decentralized energy solutions is crucial for achieving the country’s broader renewable energy targets.
Wind Energy Developments and State Contributions
India added 3.4 GW of new wind capacity in 2024, with Gujarat, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu leading the way. These states accounted for 98% of the new wind capacity additions, highlighting their continued dominance in wind power generation. Gujarat alone contributed 1,250 MW, followed by Karnataka with 1,135 MW and Tamil Nadu with 980 MW. This concentration of wind energy capacity in a few states underscores the importance of regional resources and infrastructure in driving renewable energy growth.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has played a pivotal role in fostering this growth through policy interventions and financial support. The government has actively pursued the development of green hydrogen policies to reduce costs and attract investments in this emerging sector. Additionally, the expansion of domestic solar PV and wind turbine manufacturing supports India’s ambition to become a global renewable energy manufacturing hub. Significant investments in inter-state transmission systems are also proposed to evacuate power from renewable-rich states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.
Future Prospects and Challenges Ahead
India’s renewable energy sector is on a transformative journey, with 2024 marking a year of record capacity additions and policy advancements. As the country moves into 2025, addressing regulatory, financial, and infrastructural challenges will be crucial. Continued policy support, increased investment, and a focus on emerging technologies will be essential for achieving ambitious renewable energy targets.
The government’s commitment to renewable energy is evident in its proactive measures and initiatives. However, to solidify its status as a global leader in the clean energy transition, India must navigate various challenges. These include ensuring grid stability, enhancing energy storage solutions, and promoting public awareness about renewable energy benefits. With a concerted effort, India is well-positioned to achieve its goals and contribute significantly to the global renewable energy landscape.
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