India Surpasses 90 GW of Installed Solar Capacity 2024

India Surpasses 90 GW of Installed Solar Capacity September 2024: A Major Milestone in Renewable Energy

India has achieved a remarkable milestone by surpassing 90 GW of installed solar capacity as of September 2024. This development marks a significant leap in the country's renewable energy journey, positioning it among the global leaders in solar power. Solar energy now constitutes the largest segment of India's total renewable energy portfolio, which has reached 201.46 GW. Solar projects alone account for 90.76 GW, making up 58.73% of the country’s renewable capacity

Breakdown of Solar Installations:

• Ground-mounted solar: The majority of installations (70.05 GW) come from large-scale, ground-mounted projects, often located in solar parks across states like Rajasthan and Gujarat.
• Rooftop solar: Rapid growth in rooftop solar installations, which now contribute 14.3 GW, is helping urban and industrial areas shift towards cleaner energy
• Off-grid solutions: In rural areas, solar microgrids and lanterns are providing 3.78 GW of off-grid capacity, improving energy access in remote regions.

Leading States:

Rajasthan leads the pack with over 24 GW of solar capacity, followed by Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. These states have leveraged their vast land resources and favorable climate to become powerhouses in solar energy.

Government Initiatives and Support:

India's progress is largely driven by government policies, including the Solar Park Scheme and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) for solar manufacturing. These efforts, combined with public-private partnerships and increased technological adoption, have played a crucial role in scaling up solar infrastructure.

Global Context:

India’s achievement places it fifth globally in terms of solar power capacity, highlighting its growing influence in the global shift towards renewable energy. With a target of 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030, India is well on its way to becoming a clean energy leader.

Conclusion:

The surpassing of 90 GW in solar capacity is not just a technical achievement, but a reflection of India's commitment to sustainable development. As the country accelerates its renewable energy transition, it also serves as a model for other nations seeking to combat climate change and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.

India’s renewable energy future looks bright, with continued investments and innovations expected to further enhance its clean energy capabilities.

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