India's Clean Energy Milestone
| Indicator | Status (June 2025) | Growth Since 2015 |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Fossil Capacity | 50.1% (243 GW) | +20% (from 30%) |
| Total Capacity | 485 GW | +185 GW |
| Renewables | 185 GW (Solar 84GW, Wind 46GW) | 95GW added since 2020 |
| Thermal Dominance | 70% of actual generation | Down from 85% (2015) |
Progress vs. Targets
- Paris Agreement Goal: 50% non-fossil capacity by 2030 → Achieved 5 years early (2025).
- 2030 Target: 500 GW non-fossil capacity → Requires 257 GW addition in 5 years.
Critical Challenges
1. Grid Instability
- Cause: Low storage (only 5 GW) vs. 185 GW renewables.
- Impact:
- May 2024: Peak demand (250 GW) unmet due to low renewable output.
- May 2025: Solar prices hit zero during low demand.
2. Storage Deficit
| Storage Type | Capacity (2024) | 2030 Target |
|---|---|---|
| Pumped Hydro | 4.75 GW | 51 GW |
| Battery Storage | 110 MW | 43 GWh (VGF scheme) |
Barriers: High costs, import dependency (China controls 80% battery supply chain), slow approvals.
3. Transmission Bottlenecks
- HVDC Transformer Shortage: Critical for long-distance green power transmission.
- Grid Underinvestment: Only 40% planned transmission lines operational (CEA 2024).
4. Market Barriers
- 30 GW renewable projects lack Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) → developer cash crunch.
- Hybrid Tender Delays: Solar-wind-storage projects stalled.
Government Initiatives
| Policy | Detail | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Viability Gap Funding (VGF) | ₹5,400 crore for 43 GWh battery storage | Boosts storage affordability |
| ISTS Waiver Extension | Waived until June 2028 for storage projects | Attracts private investment |
| Pumped Hydro Plan | 51 GW by 2032 | Enhances grid stability |
| CEA Storage Mandate | Co-locate storage with new solar projects | Ensures future-ready capacity |