Energy Equity and Ecology: India’s Green Power Shift

Context:

India has achieved 50% of its installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources, five years ahead of the 2030 target set under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. This marks a significant step toward low-carbon development while maintaining energy security.

What is the 50% Non-Fossil Fuel Capacity Milestone?

• As of June 30, 2025, India's total installed electricity generation capacity stands at 484.82 GW.

• Out of this, non-fossil fuel sources contribute 50.08%, crossing the halfway mark.

• Break-up of Installed Capacity:

  • Thermal (fossil-based): 241.04 GW (49.92%)

  • Renewable Energy (RE): 184.62 GW

  • Large Hydro: 49.38 GW

  • Nuclear: 8.78 GW

  • Total Non-Fossil Fuel Capacity: 242.78 GW (50.08%)

Key Factors Behind This Achievement:

• Strong Political Will:

  • Consistent policy direction and funding from the central government, especially under PM Modi and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

• Private Sector Participation:

  • Increased investments from Indian and foreign companies in solar, wind, and hybrid technologies.

• Progressive State Initiatives:

  • States like Gujarat and Tamil Nadu took the lead with renewable energy parks and wind corridors.

• Digital Infrastructure:

  • Implementation of smart meters, EV charging stations, and digital grid balancing tools for better renewable integration.

• International Cooperation:

  • Collaborations under frameworks like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) enabled technology transfer and concessional financing.

Challenges and Concerns:

• Grid Instability:

  • Renewable energy's variable nature makes grid frequency balancing more difficult.

• Land Conflicts:

  • Solar and wind projects sometimes displace farmlands, forests, or community spaces, leading to environmental and social disputes.

• Storage Deficiencies:

  • Limited availability of large-scale battery storage or pumped hydro affects 24/7 renewable supply.

• Intermittency Issues:

  • Solar and wind generation depends on weather and time, making supply less predictable.

• Cybersecurity Threats:

  • As power systems digitalise, they face risks of hacking, malware, and cyber disruptions.

Way Forward:

• Grid Modernisation:

  • Upgrade to AI-driven, smart grids with two-way communication and accurate demand forecasting.

• Expand Storage Solutions:

  • Invest in Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and pumped hydro to stabilize renewable energy flows.

• Promote Circular Economy:

  • Create systems to recycle solar panels, batteries, and wind turbines, reducing environmental waste.

• Ensure Energy Equity:

  • Encourage rooftop solar and microgrids in rural, tribal, and underserved areas for inclusive access.

• Scale Up Green Hydrogen:

  • Develop green hydrogen as a clean fuel for transport, steel, cement, and oil refineries.

• Strengthen Cyber Resilience:

  • Enhance digital security through firewalls, real-time monitoring, and national cybersecurity frameworks.

Conclusion:

India reaching 50% non-fossil fuel installed capacity ahead of schedule reflects the compatibility of climate action with economic growth. It bolsters India's image as a global clean energy leader. Moving forward, the emphasis must be on building a resilient, inclusive, and intelligent energy ecosystem that supports long-term sustainability and energy justice.