In a historic milestone, India added a record 52,537 MW of power capacity in FY 2025–26 (until January 31). Of the total power generation capacity added during the current financial year, 39,657 MW comes from renewable energy sources – this includes 34,955 MW from solar power and 4,613 MW from wind energy.
This expansion reflects India’s accelerated shift toward non-fossil fuel sources, achieving a total installed capacity of 5,20,510.95 MW
The Installed Capacity refers to the maximum power a plant can produce under specific conditions, distinct from the actual energy generated over time.
- India has surpassed its COP26 ‘Panchamrit’ pledge – to have 50% of installed capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030 – five years ahead of schedule.
- Renewable Energy (RE) Sources: Comprise Solar, Wind, Biomass, and Small Hydro. Solar leads the current FY addition with 34,955 MW.
- While non-fossil capacity is higher in terms of installed megawatts, coal-based thermal power remains the “baseload,” providing nearly 74% of actual electricity generation due to its high capacity utilization factor.
Current Capacity Breakup (as of Jan 31, 2026)
| Source Category | Installed Capacity (MW) | Percentage Share |
| Non-Fossil Fuel (RE + Nuclear) | 2,71,969.33 | ~52.2% |
| Fossil Fuel (Coal, Gas, Lignite) | 2,48,541.62 | ~47.8% |
| Total | 5,20,510.95 | 100% |
Panchamrit Targets: India aims for 500 GW of non-fossil capacity and Net Zero emissions by 2070.
Small Hydro vs. Large Hydro: In India, “Renewable Energy Sources” (RES) strictly include hydro projects up to 25 MW. Projects above 25 MW are classified as “Large Hydro” but still count under “Non-Fossil Fuel”.
Difference between Renewable and Non-Fossil Fuel
All renewable energy is non-fossil, but not all non-fossil energy is renewable.
| Renewable Energy | Non-Fossil Fuel Energy |
| Naturally replenished (sun, wind, flowing water, biomass) | May or may not be naturally replenished |
| Solar, Wind, Biomass, Small Hydro (≤25 MW) | Renewable sources + Large Hydro & Nuclear |
| Used for renewable energy targets & incentives | Used for climate commitments (e.g., non-fossil capacity targets) |
| Generally low-carbon and sustainable | Low-carbon, but may have ecological or waste concerns (e.g., nuclear, large dams) |
Having >50% non-fossil installed capacity does not mean >50% of India’s electricity consumed is green. Installed capacity is potential; actual generation depends on availability. Renewables have lower Capacity Utilization Factors (CUF) than thermal. Coal still generates the majority of units (kWh) consumed.
Sources:
- PIB Release- Ministry of Power.
- Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) – COP26 Commitments.
- Central Electricity Authority (CEA) Monthly Generation Reports.
- National Electricity Plan (2023-32).
- CEA – All India Installed Capacity Report (Jan 2026).
