What is the current scenario of renewable power generation in India ? Discuss the factors responsible for…

Question

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

Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

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.

**Introduction**

India’s renewable energy⟦1⟧ 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**

SKETCH: fishbone | Challenges in Renewable Power Generation  
effect: Renewable power generation constraints  
- Infrastructure limitations  
- Grid integration issues  
- Regional disparities  
- Policy and regulatory uncertainties

1. **Capacity Expansion and Regional Trends**: Renewable capacity surged to 156 GW by October 2024, with solar at 119.02 GW and wind⟦2⟧ at 54.65 GW by January 2026⟦3⟧; ==Andhra Pradesh== leads with large solar parks and wind farms, though eastern India lags, reflecting regional disparities in adoption.

2. **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**

1. **Climate and Economic Factors**: India’s net-zero by 2070 goal and falling renewable costs, supported by schemes like PM Kusum Yojana⟦4⟧ and CPSU Scheme Phase II, attract investment and reduce fossil fuel imports, benefiting states like ==Andhra Pradesh==.

2. **Energy Security and Policy Support**: Renewables reduce import dependence; government incentives promote rural electrification and private participation. The National Solar Mission⟦5⟧ has been pivotal in scaling solar capacity nationwide.

**Reasons for Shift**

1. **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.

2. **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**

2. **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.

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