Solar power capacity exceeds 100 GW: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi

Why in News?

According to Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi, India has achieved a historic milestone by crossing 100 GW of installed solar power capacity.

Key Points:

• This achievement reflects the country's commitment to a clean and green future.
• Initiatives such as solar panels, solar parks and rooftop solar projects have contributed significantly to this achievement.
  • PM Suryaghar Free Electricity Scheme is promoting rooftop solar power.
• India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel based power capacity by 2030.

Solar Power Scenario in India:

• India's solar power sector has recorded exceptional growth over the last decade.
• The installed solar capacity was just 2.82 GW in 2014, which is expected to increase to over 100 GW in 2025.
  • As of 31 January 2025, India's total installed solar capacity has reached 100.33 GW.

Clean Energy Statistics in India:

• Total Renewable Energy Capacity:
  • As of December 2024, India's total renewable energy installed capacity has reached 203.18 GW.
  • This is 46.3% of the country's total installed power generation capacity.
• Additionally, nuclear power has an installed capacity of 8.18 GW.
• This takes the total non-fossil fuel based power generation capacity to 211.36 GW.
  • This is almost half of the country's total installed capacity.