India, the world’s most populous country, has started to reduce its heavy dependence on coal and increase the use of renewable energy. Between April 2024 and April 2025, India added 30 gigawatts of clean energy—enough to provide electricity to nearly 18 million homes. Coal used to make up about 60% of the country’s installed power capacity 11 years ago. However, this dropped to below 50%, based on data from the Ministry of Power. Solar energy has become more affordable, costing less than new coal power, because of abundant sunshine and lower prices for solar components. This major shift is happening as India’s energy demand continues to grow due to economic expansion and industrial development. The decision to expand renewable sources is also a strategic response to climate concerns.

Experts explained that the rising use of solar, wind, and other clean sources could play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions. One energy analyst from a climate think tank stated that battery storage is getting cheaper, making renewable power more reliable even when sunlight or wind is not available. India has nearly 170 gigawatts of renewable energy projects under construction and is targeting 500 gigawatts by 2030. Government support, including a $452 million investment and laws to promote clean energy, has helped attract $81 billion in renewable investments over the last decade. Despite this remarkable progress, coal still provides 75% of India’s electricity. Reports have noted that clean energy must be better integrated into the power grid. Land acquisition and weak transmission infrastructure remain significant barriers. Experts warned that fossil fuels cannot match India’s fast-growing demand, so the shift to renewable energy is both inevitable and essential for future development.