- Solar power will account for 80% of new renewable capacity by 2030.
- India’s clean energy growth will trail only China’s.
India’s renewable energy growth is accelerating at an impressive rate. Consequently, the country is set to become the world’s second-largest renewables market after China. The International Energy Agency (IEA), in its Renewables 2025 report, confirms that India is likely to achieve its 2030 clean energy goals ahead of schedule.
Globally, renewable capacity is expected to increase by 4,600 gigawatts (GW) by 2030. That figure equals the total power generation of China, the European Union, and Japan combined. In particular, India’s rapid adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems is driving this progress. Furthermore, declining installation costs, faster approval timelines, and stronger policy reforms fuel the nation’s clean energy expansion.
Solar PV will dominate global renewable growth, accounting for about 80% of all new capacity by 2030. Meanwhile, wind, hydro, bioenergy, and geothermal sources will contribute to the remaining share. Competitive pricing and consistent policy support are accelerating renewable investments across emerging regions such as Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
India’s government has also played a crucial role in sustaining this momentum. It has attracted massive private investment through large-scale energy auctions, tax incentives, and rooftop solar initiatives. As a result, these policies have strengthened national energy security and created thousands of green jobs. They have also helped to reduce carbon emissions while ensuring stable electricity access for millions of citizens.
Nevertheless, challenges persist. India’s renewable energy manufacturing sector continues to rely heavily on Chinese supply chains for solar modules and rare earth materials. This dependence exposes the country to potential production and pricing risks. To mitigate this, the IEA recommends that India diversify its supply sources and invest more in domestic production to safeguard long-term sustainability.
At the same time, grid modernisation has become increasingly vital. As renewable energy generation expands, integrating new power efficiently into existing grids remains essential. Consequently, India invests heavily in innovative grid technologies and energy storage facilities to maintain reliability. These projects will help balance variable supply and rising electricity demand.
Moreover, renewables in the transport and heating sectors are gradually increasing. Their share is expected to grow from 4% to 6% of total energy use by 2030. Expanding electric vehicles (EVs) and biofuel production in India, China, and Brazil will significantly drive this progress.
According to IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol, solar power remains the central pillar of the global clean energy transition. He added that India’s proactive policies and targeted investments position the country as a worldwide leader in sustainable development.
Ultimately, India’s renewable energy growth represents more than just the achievement of national targets. It reflects a broader vision that promotes energy independence, drives economic prosperity, and accelerates the global transition towards sustainability.