As told to Parliament (December 10, 2025): India’s total installed renewable energy capacity 250.64 GW, Centre says

India's journey towards sustainable energy has been marked by ambitious targets and significant progress, a testament to its commitment to combating climate change and ensuring energy security. The announcement on December 10, 2025, by the Centre to Parliament, stating that India's total installed renewable energy capacity has reached 250.64 GW, is a crucial milestone in this ongoing transition. This figure not only highlights the nation's accelerated pace in green energy adoption but also underscores the strategic importance of renewable sources in its future energy mix.

**Background Context and Historical Evolution:**

India, a rapidly developing economy, faces the dual challenge of meeting its escalating energy demand while simultaneously reducing its carbon footprint. Historically, coal has been the bedrock of India's energy sector. However, recognizing the environmental costs and the geopolitical implications of fossil fuel dependency, India embarked on a concerted push for renewable energy. The foundational policy framework for this shift can be traced back to the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) launched in 2008, which included the National Solar Mission (NSM) in 2010. The NSM aimed to make India a global leader in solar energy, initially targeting 20 GW by 2022. This target was later revised upwards significantly to 100 GW of solar power within the broader goal of 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022 (including 60 GW wind, 10 GW bio-power, and 5 GW small hydro). While the 175 GW target wasn't fully met by 2022, the efforts laid a strong foundation. A major turning point came at the 26th UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow in November 2021, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced India's 'Panchamrit' commitments, including achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030 and reducing the carbon intensity of its economy by 45% by 2030 from 2005 levels, alongside reaching Net Zero emissions by 2070. The 250.64 GW reported capacity is a significant step towards the 2030 target, reflecting a substantial increase from previous years.

**What Happened and Key Stakeholders:**

The information regarding India's installed renewable energy capacity reaching 250.64 GW was officially presented by the Union Government to the Parliament on December 10, 2025. This parliamentary disclosure is part of the government's accountability mechanism, providing updates on national policy implementation and progress. The primary stakeholder responsible for driving this agenda is the **Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)**, which formulates policies, implements schemes, and facilitates projects in the renewable energy sector. Other crucial stakeholders include: **NITI Aayog**, which provides strategic direction and policy recommendations; various **Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs)** like NTPC Limited (which has expanded into renewables), Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) responsible for tender and project development, and Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) providing financing; **State Governments**, who play a vital role in land acquisition, policy implementation, and grid integration; and a robust **Private Sector**, which has been the primary investor and developer of large-scale renewable projects, driven by government incentives and a growing market.

**Significance for India and Broader Themes:**

The achievement of 250.64 GW installed renewable capacity holds profound significance for India across multiple dimensions. Economically, it enhances India's **energy security** by reducing reliance on volatile international fossil fuel markets, thereby saving valuable foreign exchange. It also stimulates domestic manufacturing through initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for solar PV modules, fostering job creation and technological advancement. Environmentally, this expansion is critical for **climate change mitigation**, contributing to cleaner air, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and fulfilling India's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. Socially, it promotes sustainable development and can lead to improved health outcomes due to reduced pollution. Politically, it strengthens India's position as a global leader in climate action and renewable energy, exemplified by its role in establishing the International Solar Alliance (ISA). This progress is intrinsically linked to broader themes of **governance**, as it requires effective policy formulation and implementation; **economy**, by driving green growth and investment; and **international relations**, by demonstrating commitment to global climate goals.

**Constitutional Provisions and Future Implications:**

While there isn't a single specific article directly mandating renewable energy development, several constitutional provisions and acts underpin this drive. **Article 48A** of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) mandates that "The State shall endeavour to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wild life of the country." This provides a constitutional imperative for sustainable development, including renewable energy. Furthermore, 'Electricity' falls under the **Concurrent List** (Entry 38 of List III, Seventh Schedule), allowing both the Union and State governments to legislate on the subject, which is crucial for integrated energy planning. The **Electricity Act, 2003**, provides the regulatory framework for the power sector, including provisions for Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) which mandate discoms to purchase a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources. Future implications include the challenges of integrating such a large quantum of intermittent renewable energy into the national grid, necessitating significant investment in grid modernization, smart grids, and advanced energy storage solutions (like battery energy storage systems and pumped hydro). The **National Green Hydrogen Mission** is another critical future frontier, aiming to position India as a global hub for green hydrogen production and export, further diversifying its clean energy portfolio and decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors. Continued policy support, financial incentives, and technological innovation will be essential to achieve the ambitious 500 GW target by 2030 and ensure a just transition for all stakeholders.

**Specific Facts and Dates:**

* **National Solar Mission (NSM):** Launched in 2010. Initial target 20 GW by 2022. Revised to 100 GW solar within 175 GW total renewables by 2022.

* **COP26 Glasgow (November 2021):** India announced 'Panchamrit' commitments, including 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, 45% reduction in emissions intensity by 2030 (from 2005 levels), and Net Zero by 2070.

* **Electricity Act, 2003:** Provides regulatory framework for RPOs.

* **Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme:** Launched for solar PV manufacturing to boost domestic production.

* **International Solar Alliance (ISA):** Co-founded by India in 2015, promotes solar energy globally.