India’s installed power capacity has crossed the 476 GW mark, with nearly half of it—49%—now sourced from non-fossil fuels. According to the latest government data released in June 2025, this includes 226.9 GW of renewable energy and 8.8 GW of nuclear capacity. Despite this progress, coal continues to underpin the majority of actual power generation, contributing over 91% of the country’s thermal output.
Renewables on the rise, targets within reach
The country’s renewable energy portfolio is growing steadily, led by 110.9 GW of solar and 51.3 GW of wind installations. An additional 176.7 GW of renewable projects are in various stages of development, with 72 GW already under active bidding. India has committed to achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, positioning itself as a major player in global clean energy transitions.
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The surge in green energy investments aligns with India’s dual goals: meeting the rising electricity demand of its population and advancing toward a low-carbon future. In the past decade, the country has dramatically reduced its power shortage levels—from 4.2% in 2013-14 to just 0.1% in 2024-25.
Coal holds its ground amid transition
While non-fossil energy capacity has expanded rapidly, coal-fired power plants still provide a stable backbone for the grid. Of the total 240 GW of thermal capacity, coal alone accounts for more than 91%, reflecting its entrenched role in the country’s energy mix. Gas, hydro, and nuclear sources contribute to the rest of the conventional capacity, reinforcing India’s reputation for energy diversification.
Per capita electricity consumption also witnessed a sharp rise, from 957 kWh in 2013-14 to 1,395 kWh in 2023-24, underlining the growing demand for reliable energy infrastructure. With its current trajectory, India is balancing its decarbonisation ambitions with the practical need for security, making strategic use of both traditional and renewable resources.
