Introduction
India is racing toward its clean-energy goals with unprecedented momentum. From vast solar parks in Rajasthan to pilot green-hydrogen refineries in Gujarat, the nation is leveraging policy support, private investment, and technological innovation to decarbonize industry and bolster energy security.
1. Solar Capacity Boom
By June 2025, India surpassed 75 GW of grid-connected solar capacity, adding over 12 GW in the last year—a 20% annual increase. Concurrently, 4 GW of wind-solar hybrid projects are under development, maximizing land use and grid stability.
2. Policy Drivers and Manufacturing Push
- PLI for Solar Modules: The Production Linked Incentive scheme disbursed ₹5,000 crore in FY2024-25, spurring domestic panel manufacturing and reducing import dependence.
- Green Hydrogen Mission: With ₹19,700 crore earmarked, India is underwriting electrolyzer plants and pilot refueling stations to decarbonize heavy industries like steel and fertilizers.
“Green hydrogen will reshape our industrial landscape by slashing carbon footprints,” said Dr. Ananya Rao, Energy Secretary.
3. Industry Leaders and Startup Innovation
ReNew Power commissioned Asia’s largest 2.5 GW solar park in Jaisalmer, using bifacial panels for 15% higher yields. Oil major Indian Oil’s 5-tonne-per-day green-hydrogen pilot in Mathura paves the way for refinery-scale adoption. Startups like Fourth Partner Energy and Accel Energy are deploying behind-the-meter solar-plus-storage systems, offering demand-response services that stabilize the grid during evening peaks.
4. Economic and Environmental Impact
- Foreign-Exchange Savings: Renewable growth could cut fossil-fuel imports by 25% by 2030, saving billions in forex.
- Job Creation: The sector employs over 1.3 million workers across manufacturing, project execution, and operations.
- Grid Resilience: Plans for 16 GW of pumped-storage hydro and 8 GW of battery storage are vital to absorb variable renewable output.
Conclusion
India’s renewable-energy surge is more than a climate pledge—it is a national priority reshaping industry, livelihoods, and geopolitics. Continued investment in local manufacturing, grid modernization, and green-hydrogen infrastructure will determine the speed and sustainability of this transition, positioning India as a global leader in clean energy.