India has emerged as the world’s third-largest country in renewable energy installed capacity, according to the Renewable Energy Statistics 2026 released by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The latest data, as of December 2025, shows India moving ahead of Brazil, marking a significant shift in global energy rankings.

Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi confirmed that India’s total renewable energy capacity reached 250.52 gigawatts (GW), placing it behind China and the US. The global total stands at 5,149.28 GW.

Rapid Capacity Growth and Record Additions

India recorded its highest-ever annual non-fossil capacity addition of 55.3 GW during FY 2025–26. Total non-fossil installed capacity reached 283.46 GW as of March 31, 2026. Renewable energy alone accounts for 274.68 GW, including solar, wind, bioenergy, and hydro sources.

Solar power remains the primary driver, with installed capacity rising to 150.26 GW. Wind energy reached 56.09 GW, with a record annual addition of 6.05 GW. Distributed renewable energy, particularly rooftop solar and PM KUSUM projects, contributed significantly, accounting for 36% of new solar capacity additions.

Electricity Generation and Energy Mix Shift

India’s total electricity generation reached 1,845.9 billion units (BU) in FY 2025–26. Non-fossil sources contributed 29.2% of total generation, while renewable sources, including large hydro, accounted for 26.2%.

In July 2025, renewable energy met a record 51.5% of the country’s electricity demand in a single month. Wind and solar together generated over 276 BU during the year, reflecting strong growth trends.

Policy Push and Long-Term Targets

India achieved 50% of its cumulative installed power capacity from non-fossil sources in June 2025, five years ahead of its 2030 target under the Paris Agreement. The government is now working toward 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030.

Key policy measures include reduced GST on renewable equipment, incentives for battery storage manufacturing, and new regulatory frameworks to improve grid access and investment stability. Programs like the National Green Hydrogen Mission and Green Energy Corridor continue to support long-term expansion.