India Expands Renewable Energy Capacity by 24.56 GW in H1 FY 2026-27

India has made significant strides in expanding its renewable energy capacity, adding a total of 24,558.43 MW during the first half of the financial year 2026-27. This growth was reported by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and covers the period from April 1 to September 30, 2026. The majority of this capacity, approximately 20,790.76 MW, came from solar energy sources, showcasing the country's commitment to cleaner energy solutions. This substantial increase marks a key achievement in India's ongoing efforts to enhance its renewable energy infrastructure and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

The renewable energy sector in India has been rapidly evolving, with solar energy emerging as the dominant source of new capacity. In addition to solar contributions, the country also added 3,106.23 MW of wind energy, 10.40 MW from small hydro projects, and 1.04 MW from off-grid waste-to-energy sources. Large hydro projects contributed an additional 650 MW during this period, reflecting a diverse approach to renewable energy development.

In September 2026 alone, India added 3,692.16 MW of renewable energy capacity, with solar accounting for 3,011.41 MW and wind contributing 680.75 MW. Notably, there were no additions from biomass, waste-to-energy, or small hydro during that month. The rapid growth of solar energy capacity has positioned India as a leader in the global renewable energy landscape, with cumulative solar power capacity reaching 171.05 GW as of September 30, 2026. India's total renewable energy capacity, including large hydro, has now reached 299.25 GW. Of this, 247.18 GW comes from renewable sources excluding large hydro. Solar energy alone represents about 57 percent of the country's total renewable capacity, with wind power contributing 59.20 GW as the second-largest source.

The increase in renewable capacity reflects the country's dedication to achieving its ambitious targets for non-fossil fuel energy generation. As India continues to invest in renewable energy infrastructure, the focus will remain on sustaining this growth trajectory. Key factors such as the availability of transmission infrastructure, land, financing, and effective project execution will play a crucial role in ensuring that India meets its future energy demands while adhering to environmental sustainability goals. The ongoing expansion of renewable energy capacity is not just a national priority but also a significant contributor to global efforts against climate change.