India is accelerating its clean energy transition with a focus on self-reliance, industrial growth, and global competitiveness. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said the country’s renewable energy expansion is now closely linked to trade, manufacturing, and long-term economic resilience.

Speaking at the CII Annual Business Summit 2026 in New Delhi on May 12, the minister said India is progressing steadily toward its target of 500 gigawatts (GW) of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030. He stated that renewable energy is becoming central to India’s industrial competitiveness and future export growth.

India Expands Renewable Energy Capacity At Rapid Pace

According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, India’s non-fossil fuel energy capacity has increased from 81 GW in 2014 to 288 GW in 2026. Solar energy capacity has grown from 2.8 GW to 155 GW, while wind energy capacity has increased from 21 GW to 56.4 GW.

Officials said renewable energy contributed significantly during India’s record peak power demand of 256 GW. Nearly one-third of that demand was supported by renewable sources.

The minister also noted that India continued attracting investment in renewable energy even as global clean energy investments declined by around 7 percent. He said this reflects growing international confidence in India’s energy market and policy direction.

Clean Energy Linked To Trade And Manufacturing

Government officials said global carbon-related trade regulations are changing how industries compete internationally. Indian sectors such as steel, aluminium, automotive, chemicals, and textiles are expected to increase renewable energy use to remain competitive in export markets.

The government has introduced several policy measures to support this transition. These include Renewable Consumption Obligation targets, Carbon Credit Certificate Regulations 2026, green ammonia procurement agreements, and reforms to support domestic solar manufacturing.

Green Hydrogen And Storage Seen As Next Growth Areas

The minister highlighted emerging sectors such as green hydrogen, battery storage, pumped hydro, offshore wind, and round-the-clock renewable energy systems as key drivers of future growth.

Officials said stronger transmission systems, energy storage, and grid resilience will be important as India moves closer to its 2030 clean energy target.