India Surpasses 500 GW Power Capacity, Renewables Dominate Energy Mix
India's installed power generation capacity has surpassed 500 GW, with non-fossil fuel sources now accounting for over 51% of the total capacity. The country has added 28 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity and 5.1 GW of fossil fuel capacity in the first half of the fiscal year. On July 29, renewable energy met 51.5% of India's total electricity demand of 203 GW. India has achieved its COP26 commitment of 50% non-fossil fuel power capacity five years ahead of schedule.
*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
India has achieved a significant milestone in its power sector, with installed generation capacity crossing the 500 GW mark. This development, coupled with the growing share of renewable energy sources, marks a transformative shift in the country's energy landscape.
Power Capacity Milestone
As of September 30, India's total installed power generation capacity reached 500.89 GW, more than doubling from 249 GW in 2014. This substantial growth reflects the country's commitment to expanding its energy infrastructure to meet rising demand.
Renewable Energy Dominance
In a noteworthy achievement, non-fossil fuel sources now account for over half of India's total power generation capacity. Here's a breakdown of the current energy mix:
| Energy Source | Capacity (GW) | Share (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Non-fossil fuels (Renewable, Hydro, Nuclear) | 256.09 | 51.13 |
| Fossil fuels | 244.80 | 48.87 |
| Total | 500.89 | 100.00 |
Rapid Capacity Addition
The first half of the fiscal year saw significant additions to India's power generation capacity:
| Capacity Type | Addition (GW) |
|---|---|
| Non-fossil fuel | 28.00 |
| Fossil fuel | 5.10 |
This rapid expansion, particularly in non-fossil fuel sources, underscores India's commitment to sustainable energy development.
Record-Breaking Renewable Performance
On July 29, India's renewable energy sector achieved a remarkable feat by meeting 51.5% of the country's total electricity demand of 203 GW. This milestone demonstrates the growing reliability and capacity of renewable energy sources in meeting India's power needs.
Early Achievement of Climate Goals
India has surpassed its COP26 commitment of having 50% of its installed electric power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030. Achieving this target five years ahead of schedule showcases India's accelerated progress in transitioning to cleaner energy sources and its dedication to combating climate change.
The rapid growth in India's power sector, particularly in renewable energy, positions the country as a global leader in sustainable development. As India continues to expand its energy infrastructure, the focus on non-fossil fuel sources is likely to play a crucial role in shaping its energy future and environmental impact.
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