Indicators in the field of clean energy were supported by a record introduction of new capacities. In 2025, India added 44.5 GW of renewable energy sources, marking the largest increase in history and nearly doubling the level of the previous year. Solar energy, in particular, developed actively, reaching 135 GW, while wind energy approached the mark of 54 GW. Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted that this dynamic reflects the "deep commitment of the country to a green and sustainable future."
The achieved results were made possible by an effective combination of regulatory initiatives, institutional support, and accessible financial instruments. Over the past ten years, auctions and reverse auctions have contributed to a nearly 80% reduction in tariffs for solar projects. Production incentive programs increased the output of solar modules to 144 GW, of which 81 GW was added in 2025 alone, strengthening domestic supply chains and reducing dependence on imports.
The transition to clean energy has also positively impacted the economy. India avoided emissions of 410.9 million tons of CO₂ and saved over $46 billion in pollution and energy-related costs. Of this amount, $14.9 billion was attributed to reduced consumption of fossil sources, while $31.7 billion was related to improved public health and air quality. These economic benefits are seen as an important argument for accelerating the transition to carbon-free sources in Global South countries.
The country aims to achieve 500 GW of renewable capacity by 2030. Special programs have been developed for this goal: the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which provides access to solar rooftops for households, and PM Kusum, which helps farmers transition to solar energy sources. The National Mission on Green Hydrogen is also in place, creating a new industry with competitive hydrogen prices.
India's experience is actively discussed at international climate forums such as COP, the IRENA Assembly, and the Sustainable Development Week in Abu Dhabi. Against the backdrop of the gap between set climate goals and their actual implementation, India is beginning to be seen as an example for other countries facing constraints in access to capital and technology.
As the chair of the International Solar Alliance Assembly, India is also actively sharing its experience with Global South states and small island nations. Within the alliance, attention is focused on issues of financing, digitalization, demand aggregation, and the development of new models of distributed generation. This approach is viewed as a bridge between climate commitments and their practical implementation.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/g20-benchmark-indias-journey-from-clean-energy-pledges-to-real-impact-11377100
