India Sets Solar, Wind Power Record in First Half of 2025

India achieved record growth in solar and wind energy in the first half of 2025. This growth helped reduce emissions from the power sector by 24 million tonnes compared to the same period in 2024. The increase in renewable energy outpaced the rise in electricity demand. This marks shift towards cleaner energy sources in India’s power mix.

Solar Power Expansion

Solar power generation rose by 17 terawatt-hours (TWh) between January and June 2025. This represents a 25 percent increase over the previous year. Solar energy’s share in India’s total electricity generation increased to 9.2 percent from 7.4 percent in the same period last year. The growth in solar power alone exceeded the overall increase in electricity demand.

Wind Power Growth

Wind power generation jumped by 11 TWh, a 29 percent increase compared to the previous year. Wind energy now accounts for 5.1 percent of India’s electricity, up from 4 percent in the first half of 2024. This rapid expansion helped meet a large portion of the new electricity demand without relying on fossil fuels.

Other Clean Energy Sources

Nuclear power generation grew by 14 percent in the first half of 2025. Hydro power rebounded with a 17 percent rise after a decline last year. Together with solar and wind, these sources contributed to a cleaner electricity grid. The combined growth in renewables and nuclear power helped reduce dependence on coal and gas.

Decline in Fossil Fuel Use

Coal-based power generation fell by 22 TWh, a 3.1 percent decrease. Gas-based power dropped sharply by 34 percent. The reduction in fossil fuel use led to a 24 million tonne cut in carbon dioxide emissions from the power sector. This demonstrates India’s progress in lowering its carbon footprint through renewable energy adoption.

Electricity Demand Trends

Electricity demand grew by only 1.3 percent in the first half of 2025, the slowest since the COVID-19 pandemic. Factors included milder weather and slower industrial activity. Cooling demand decreased as air conditioner use dropped. Had temperatures matched those of last year, demand would have risen by about 3.5 percent. Even then, clean energy growth would have surpassed demand growth.

Outlook For The Future

Demand is expected to rise in the second half of 2025. This could cause a slight increase in coal power use. However, the strong momentum in renewable energy growth suggests continued progress in reducing fossil fuel dependence and emissions.