Has India Overtaken Japan to Become the World’s Third-Largest Solar Energy Producer?
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Synopsis
In a remarkable achievement, India has surpassed Japan to become the third-largest solar energy producer globally. As the country accelerates its clean energy initiatives, this milestone not only showcases India's commitment to sustainable energy but also sets the stage for ambitious future goals in renewable energy production.
Key Takeaways
- India is now the third-largest solar energy producer globally.
- Production reached 1,08,494 GWh, exceeding Japan's output.
- The nation aims for 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.
- Wind energy capacity has also seen substantial growth.
- Leadership plays a crucial role in driving renewable energy initiatives.
New Delhi, Aug 1 (NationPress) The Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, has announced that India has overtaken Japan to become the third-largest solar energy producer in the world, marking a crucial milestone in the country's journey towards clean energy advancement.
India generated 1,08,494 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of solar energy, surpassing Japan's output of 96,459 GWh, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
Joshi shared this information through a post on the social media platform X.
“India has outperformed Japan in solar energy production — generating 1,08,494 GWh compared to Japan’s 96,459 GWh — and has now claimed the title of the world’s third-largest solar power producer,” the Minister stated.
He further attributed this achievement to the forward-thinking leadership of Hon’ble PM Shri @narendramodi ji, emphasizing that India is at the forefront of the global clean energy movement.
IRENA, a global organization that aids countries in their shift to sustainable energy, offers extensive data and policy guidance for the advancement of renewable energy worldwide.
This progress aligns with India’s ambitious goal of reaching 500 GW of non-fossil fuel electricity capacity by 2030 through a well-rounded energy strategy.
Alongside its solar advancements, India is also broadening its wind energy initiatives.
Last month, the minister reported to Parliament that as of June 30 this year, India’s installed wind energy capacity had reached 51.67 GW.
Data provided by the minister in a written response in the Lok Sabha indicates that the wind energy capacity in the country has been growing steadily over the past three fiscal years, with 2,275.55 MW added in 2023–2024, 3,253.39 MW added in 2024–2025, and 1,637.02 MW of new capacity installed in the April–June quarter of 2025–2026.
With 13,816.68 MW of installed capacity, Gujarat leads the nation in wind power generation. Tamil Nadu follows with 11,830.36 MW, while Karnataka ranks third with 7,714.74 MW of installed wind power.
Point of View
It is clear that India's achievement in solar energy production is not just a statistic; it reflects the nation's commitment to sustainable development. This progress serves as a beacon of hope and determination, showcasing how focused policies and leadership can drive significant change in the energy sector. The trajectory of India’s energy ambitions is a narrative of resilience and innovation.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is India's current solar energy production?
India has produced 1,08,494 GWh of solar energy, making it the third-largest producer globally.
How does India's solar energy production compare to Japan's?
India's solar production surpasses Japan's output of 96,459 GWh.
What are India's renewable energy goals?
India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel electricity capacity by 2030.
What is the current status of wind energy in India?
As of June 30, India has an installed wind energy capacity of 51.67 GW.
Which states lead in wind energy production in India?
Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka are the top three states in wind energy generation.
