2023 · Paper V · 10 marksFrequently asked

What is the current scenario of renewable power generation in India ? Discuss the factors responsible for the growing focus and shift towards Renewable energy.

In short

India's renewable capacity excluding large hydro reached 156 GW by October 2024, about 34% of installed capacity, led by solar and wind and concentrated in western and southern states like Andhra Pradesh. The shift is driven by the net-zero 2070 goal, falling costs, energy security and policies like PM-KUSUM.

Model answer

Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026

Introduction
India’s renewable energy1 sector has transformed, with renewables (excluding large hydro) about 34% of installed capacity by October 2024, driven by climate commitments, energy security, and sustainable development goals.
Current Scenario
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Capacity Expansion and Regional Trends

Renewable capacity surged to 156 GW by October 2024, with solar at 119.02 GW and wind2 at 54.65 GW by January 20263; Andhra Pradesh leads with large solar parks and wind farms, though eastern India lags, reflecting regional disparities in adoption.

•

Grid and Integration Challenges

Infrastructure and storage limitations cause curtailment, addressed partially by policy but remain significant. Efforts like the Green Energy Corridor project aim to strengthen transmission and reduce losses.

Factors Driving Focus
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Climate and Economic Factors

India’s net-zero by 2070 goal and falling renewable costs, supported by schemes like PM Kusum Yojana4 and CPSU Scheme Phase II, attract investment and reduce fossil fuel imports, benefiting states like Andhra Pradesh.

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Energy Security and Policy Support

Renewables reduce import dependence; government incentives promote rural electrification and private participation. The National Solar Mission5 has been pivotal in scaling solar capacity nationwide.

Reasons for Shift
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Technological Advances and Sustainability

Improved solar PV, wind turbines, and storage enhance reliability; biogas programmes such as GOBARdhan create rural jobs and reduce environmental impact.

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Global Leadership and Fossil Fuel Limits

India’s role in the International Solar Alliance and coal supply issues accelerate renewable adoption. Price volatility and pollution concerns further push the transition.

Way Forward
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Policy Stability and Local Manufacturing

Ensure consistent regulations and boost domestic solar and wind component production to reduce import dependence and create jobs.

Conclusion
Sustained policy and infrastructure efforts are essential for India’s renewable energy future.

This model answer is indicative and the model can make mistakes; please verify key facts independently.

Hand-drawn diagram: India's shift to renewables. India's shift to renewables. Diagram (forcefield): India's shift to renewables; Shift to renewable power; net-zero by 2070; cost below coal; fewer fuel imports; policy incentives; weak transmission; curtailment; coal-dependent east
Diagram: India's shift to renewables

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This chapter in the exam

Energy: needs, resources, policy; Nuclear programme and policy24 questions

Asked in 8 of 8 sittings since 2008

2008
2
2011
2
2012
5
2016
4
2017
3
2020
3
2023
4
2025
1

Most tested: Renewable energy transition in India, especially solar/clean energy and barriers to large-scale adoption.

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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2023 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.

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