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India's Power Capacity Soars 36% in 5 Years, Led by Record Renewable Growth

India's installed power capacity has increased by nearly 36 percent over the last five years, fueled by an unprecedented expansion in renewable energy. Solar power constituted the majority of these gains, with annual renewable additions accelerating to a record 48.6 gigawatts in 2025. In contrast, fossil-fuel capacity growth remained modest, signaling a shift in the nation's energy mix. The government's new nuclear energy policy, including the SHANTI Bill, aims to further boost clean power capacity with a target of 100 GW from nuclear by 2047.

Key Points: India's Power Capacity Up 36%, Renewables Hit Record High

  • 36% power capacity growth in 5 years
  • Record 48.6 GW renewable addition in 2025
  • Solar leads the renewable energy surge
  • SHANTI Bill aims for 100 GW nuclear by 2047
2 min read

India's installed power capacity rises 36 pc in 5 years; renewables growth at record high

India's installed power capacity grew 36% in five years, driven by a record surge in renewable energy, particularly solar, according to an RBI report.

"India recorded the highest annual addition to renewable capacity on record in CY25. - Reserve Bank of India Report"

New Delhi, Jan 23

India's installed power capacity surged nearly 36 per cent over the past five years, driven largely by a surge in renewable energy, the Reserve Bank of India said in a new report.

The Central Bank said that India recorded the highest annual addition to renewable capacity on record in CY25.

Data from the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) showed that renewable additions rose from 5.6 GW in 2020 to 14.4 GW in 2021 and 16.4 GW in 2022, moderating to 13 GW in 2023 before accelerating to 28.6 GW in 2024 and a record 48.6 GW in 2025. Solar installations accounted for the bulk of the gains, according to the report.

By contrast, fossil‑fuel capacity additions remained modest at around 1-4 GW annually, while nuclear additions were small but steady from 2023 onward. The data suggested a gradual shift in India's energy mix toward cleaner sources.

"Additionally, the introduction of the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill22, 2025 along with the Nuclear Energy Mission is expected to boost nuclear power capacity to 100 GW by 2047 while enabling limited private participation in the nuclear energy sector under regulatory oversight," the report said.

Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, had made a strong pitch for global investors towards opportunities in India's clean and green energy sector at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos.

Prahlad Joshi highlighted India's proven ability to scale solar, wind, green hydrogen and energy storage in a focused discussion with global industry leaders on strengthening long-term climate and clean energy investments in India.

The minister encouraged investments in India through renewable-powered hydrogen hubs, integrated energy projects, and port-based export infrastructure.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone working in the energy sector, the data on renewables is encouraging but the real challenge is grid integration and storage. The jump from 13 GW to 48.6 GW in two years is remarkable, but can our infrastructure handle this intermittent power? A thoughtful piece.
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Priya S
Good to see progress, but what about the distribution companies (DISCOMs)? Many are still in huge debt. Adding capacity is one thing, making sure it reaches every household reliably and affordably is another. The focus should be on the entire chain, not just generation.
V
Vikram M
The SHANTI Bill for nuclear energy is a bold and necessary step. 100 GW by 2047 is an ambitious target, but we need this baseload power to complement solar and wind. Private participation with strong regulation is the way forward. Jai Hind!
R
Rohit P
Minister Joshi promoting green hydrogen at Davos is smart. India can be a global leader in this. But we must ensure the manufacturing for solar panels, batteries, and electrolysers happens here too, creating jobs. "Make in India" for green tech!
M
Michael C
This is a positive global contribution from India. The shift in the energy mix is crucial for climate goals. The data shows a clear decoupling of energy growth from fossil fuels. Other developing economies should look at this model.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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