Has India Surpassed Japan in Solar Energy Generation?

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Has India Surpassed Japan in Solar Energy Generation?

Synopsis

India has made significant strides in renewable energy, now boasting the title of the world's third-largest solar energy producer. As it approaches its 500 GW capacity goal by 2030, the nation is also strengthening its energy grid to ensure efficient distribution. Discover how this ambitious initiative is shaping India's energy future.

Key Takeaways

  • India's renewable energy capacity reached 235.7 GW by June 2025.
  • The Green Energy Corridor is crucial for connecting renewable sources.
  • Advanced technologies are being adopted to enhance grid efficiency.
  • Energy storage solutions are essential for managing supply and demand.
  • The grid is evolving into a two-way system with consumer contributions.

New Delhi, Dec 3 (NationPress) India’s journey towards clean energy is accelerating rapidly as the nation nears its ambitious target of installing 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, according to a recent report.

As of June 2025, India achieved a remarkable 235.7 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity, which includes 226.9 GW from renewable sources and 8.8 GW from nuclear energy, as reported by Times Kuwait.

This swift development underscores India’s commitment to sustainability, energy independence, and its position as a global leader in clean energy.

Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi announced that India has now ascended to become the world’s third-largest producer of solar energy, surpassing Japan.

While generating clean energy is vital, the reliable distribution of this energy across the country is equally crucial.

Thus, India's expanding grid network is becoming the cornerstone of the energy transformation.

A significant component of this strategy is the Green Energy Corridor (GEC), initiated in 2015–16, aimed at linking renewable energy sources — be it solar, wind, hydro, or tidal — to the national grid.

The project covers eight renewable-rich states, including Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Himachal Pradesh.

The Power Grid Corporation of India Limited oversees the inter-state networks, while state utilities manage the lines within individual states.

The first phase of the corridor has established approximately 9,700 circuit kilometres of transmission lines and constructed substations with a capacity of 22,600 MVA.

This project has garnered funding of approximately Rs 10,041 crore from central support, state contributions, and international partnerships, including Germany.

This network is capable of absorbing and transmitting around 20 GW of renewable energy, thereby enhancing the efficiency and strength of India’s grid, the report noted.

As renewable energy expands, the grid must adapt to fluctuations in power generation due to changes in sunlight, wind, or seasons.

To address this, India is incorporating advanced technologies such as flexible AC transmission systems, smart substations, and high-capacity transformers.

AI-driven forecasting tools and real-time sensors empower grid operators to balance energy supply and demand throughout the day.

Energy storage solutions have also become vital. Battery systems and pumped hydro storage allow excess energy to be stored for later use when demand increases.

With the rise of electric vehicles, rooftop solar installations, and small-scale energy producers, the grid is evolving into a two-way system, enabling consumers to contribute electricity back to the network.

Point of View

India's commitment to renewable energy is commendable. The ambitious targets and ongoing projects, such as the Green Energy Corridor, reflect a strategic vision for energy sustainability. However, the true challenge lies in the effective integration of this energy into the national grid, ensuring reliability and efficiency.
NationPress
03/12/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is India's renewable energy capacity goal for 2030?
India aims to install 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
Which country has India overtaken in solar energy production?
India has surpassed Japan to become the world’s third-largest solar energy producer.
What is the Green Energy Corridor?
The Green Energy Corridor is a project initiated to connect renewable energy sources to the national grid.
Nation Press