India’s Renewable Energy Capacity Soars to 172 GW: A 1.48 Times Increase and Global Recognition

In a remarkable feat, India’s renewable energy sector has seen a tremendous surge in capacity over the past five years. According to the Union Minister for New & Renewable Energy and Power, Shri R. K. Singh, the installed renewable energy capacity in the country has soared from 115.94 GW in March 2018 to an impressive 172.00 GW in March 2023, representing a significant 1.48-fold increase.

Highlighting the country’s dedication to clean energy, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) reported that during the year 2022-23, a staggering 365.60 Billion Units (BU) of electricity were generated solely from renewable energy sources across India.

Furthermore, on a global scale, India has cemented its position as a leading player in the renewable energy arena. According to the recently released Renewable Energy Statistics 2023 by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), India now proudly stands as the fourth-largest country in terms of installed renewable energy capacity.

Notably, the groundbreaking achievement was marked by the inauguration of India’s first Battery Storage and Solar Power-based ‘Suryagram’ – named “Modhera” in Gujarat. The inauguration took place on October 9, 2022, with the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, presiding over the momentous occasion. The ‘Suryagram’ initiative provides round-the-clock renewable power supply to the entire Modhera village, which is home to approximately 6,500 residents. This pioneering project features a 6 MW ground-mounted solar power plant equipped with a 15 MWh Battery Energy Storage System, along with rooftop solar systems on all feasible households and Government buildings in the village.

The rapid progress and innovative strides made in the renewable energy sector exemplify India’s commitment to a sustainable and greener future.