India's Solar Capacity Surges 57-Fold Since 2014 to 162.15 GW
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · IR
Why in news
The government informed Parliament that India's installed solar power capacity has increased 57-fold since 2014, reaching 162.15 GW as of June 2026. This makes India the third-largest country globally in terms of installed solar capacity.
Background
India has been aggressively promoting renewable energy, with a target of 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. Solar power is a key component, supported by schemes like the Solar Park Scheme and production-linked incentives for domestic manufacturing.
Key facts
India's solar capacity rose from about 2.8 GW in 2014 to 162.15 GW in June 2026.
This represents a 57-fold increase over 12 years.
India is now the third-largest solar power generator globally.
The growth is attributed to government schemes promoting solar parks and domestic manufacturing.
Minister Pralhad Joshi provided the data in a written reply to Parliament.
Prelims pointers
- Solar Park Scheme
- Production Linked Incentive (PLI) for solar manufacturing
- Target: 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030
- Installed solar capacity: 162.15 GW (June 2026)
- Global rank: 3rd in solar capacity
Mains angles
- Discuss the role of government schemes in boosting renewable energy capacity.
- Evaluate India's progress towards its 2030 renewable energy targets.
- Analyze the challenges in scaling solar power, including land acquisition and grid integration.