Renewable Energy and Climate Responsibility: India’s COP26 Roadmap for Sustainable Power Growth
Abstract:
The pursuit of renewable energy has emerged as a cornerstone of global efforts to address pressing energy and environmental challenges curbing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing energy security, and fostering sustainable development. Renewable energy is central to India’s power sector transformation in line with its COP26 Panchamrit commitments. With rapidly growing electricity demand, renewables such as solar and wind enable India to expand power capacity while reducing dependence on fossil fuels. They are critical for achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity and meeting 50% of energy requirements from renewables by 2030. Renewable energy significantly lowers carbon emissions, supports reduction in carbon intensity of GDP, and strengthens energy security. By scaling clean power, renewables form the foundation of India’s long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
1.0 INTRODUCTION
The concept of renewable energy has emerged as a pivotal solution to the pressing global energy challenges of our time. With the world facing escalating concerns over depleting fossil fuel reserves, environmental degradation, and climate change, the need for sustainable and clean energy sources has become increasingly paramount. Renewable energy, derived from sources such as sunlight, wind, water, and organic matter, offers a promising avenue to mitigate these challenges by providing a cleaner, more abundant, and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fossil fuels. (Refer figure 1)
1.1 COP26 and India’s Panchamrit Commitments
At the 26th Conference of Parties (COP26) held in Glasgow in 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced India’s long-term climate action framework known as “Panchamrit”. It outlines five key commitments that guide India’s transition toward sustainable development while balancing growth and climate responsibility. (Refer figure 2)
Fig 2. COP 26 -Glasgow, PM Narendra Modi- Announcing the Panchamrit
The Panchamrit commitments are:
- Achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel electricity capacity by 2030
- Meeting 50% of India’s energy requirements from renewable energy by 2030
- Reducing total projected carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030
- Reducing the carbon intensity of GDP by 45% by 2030 (from 2005 levels)
- Achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070
These commitments position India as a responsible global climate leader, with renewable energy at the core of its power sector transformation and long-term climate strategy.
In the context of India, a country with a burgeoning population and surging energy demand, the growth of renewable energy sources has gained significant traction. India’s unique geographical location bestows it with abundant solar irradiance, wind patterns, and water resources, making it well-suited to harness a diverse array of renewable energy technologies. Moreover, the nation’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and advancing sustainable development aligns seamlessly with the adoption of renewable energy sources.
2.0 RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES
Renewable energy, in stark contrast to finite and environmentally detrimental non-renewable sources, encompasses a diverse array of energy derived from naturally replenishing resources. This section elucidates the fundamental concepts underpinning renewable energy while highlighting its distinction from conventional fossil fuels.
Renewable energy is harnessed from inexhaustible sources such as sunlight, wind, water, organic matter, and the Earth’s heat, ensuring a sustainable energy supply for the long term. Unlike non-renewable sources, including coal, oil, and natural gas, renewable energy contributes significantly less to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and air pollution. This inherent difference forms the bedrock of a cleaner, more ecologically harmonious energy paradigm.
India has a diverse portfolio of renewable energy sources, reflecting its varied geography and climatic conditions. Solar energy is generated using photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight directly into electricity through the photoelectric effect. India’s high solar irradiation makes it the largest contributor to renewable capacity. Wind energy works by using wind turbines, where moving air rotates blades connected to a generator, converting kinetic energy into electrical power; it is mainly concentrated in coastal and hilly regions.
Hydropower generates electricity by utilizing the potential and kinetic energy of flowing or stored water to rotate turbines. It includes large hydro projects and small hydro plants suitable for decentralized generation. Biomass energy is produced by burning agricultural residues or through gasification and anaerobic digestion, converting organic matter into heat, biogas, or electricity. Biogas and waste-to-energy systems generate power by decomposing organic waste in oxygen-free conditions, producing methane-rich gas.
Emerging sources include geothermal energy, which harnesses heat from beneath the Earth’s surface to produce steam-driven electricity, and ocean energy, which uses tides, waves, or thermal gradients. Together, these renewable sources support India’s sustainable and low-carbon power sector growth.
These renewable energy sources proffer a multitude of benefits. They mitigate the adverse ecological consequences of fossil fuel consumption, curtailing greenhouse gas emissions and combatting climate change. Economically, renewable energy fosters energy independence, mitigates the volatility of fossil fuel prices, and cultivates green job opportunities. Furthermore, it enhances energy security by diversifying the energy mix, reducing reliance on imported fuels, and bolstering resilience against supply disruptions.
3.0 Growth Trajectory of Renewable Energy in India
The growth trajectory of renewable energy in India has been a testament to the nation’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development and energy security.
Over the past decade, India has undergone a remarkable transformation in its renewable energy landscape. Statistical data showcases an exponential increase in renewable energy capacity, with a particular emphasis on solar and wind power. In 2010, India’s total renewable energy capacity stood at around 19 GW. By 2025, this capacity had surged to over 200 GW, a ten-fold increase over the span of a mere decade. Solar energy has emerged as a dominant force, accounting for a significant portion of the growth.
While India’s renewable energy growth is impressive, it has not been without challenges. Grid integration and intermittency remain significant concerns, particularly with the rapid expansion of solar and wind power. Balancing the variable nature of renewable energy sources with the demands of a stable grid presents a complex challenge. Additionally, issues related to land acquisition, permitting processes, and financing hurdles have at times slowed down project implementation.
Foreign investments have played a pivotal role in bolstering India’s renewable energy ambitions. Strategic collaborations and partnerships with countries possessing advanced renewable technologies, such as Germany, the United States, and Japan, have facilitated technology transfer and knowledge sharing. Moreover, private sector participation, both domestic and international, has infused capital and expertise into the sector. This influx of investment has contributed significantly to capacity expansion and technological innovation.
Technological advancements have been instrumental in driving the growth of renewable energy in India. Innovations in solar panel efficiency, wind turbine design, energy storage solutions, and grid management have enhanced the viability and reliability of renewable energy systems. Advancements in smart grid technologies and energy forecasting tools have further aided in optimizing the integration of renewables into the energy mix.
4.0 ANALYSIS OF GROWTH OF RE IN INDIA
Renewable energy has emerged as a cornerstone of India’s sustainable development strategy, heralding a transition towards cleaner and more environmentally friendly power generation. As of December 31, 2025, the cumulative installed capacity of renewable power stations across all regions of India has reached an impressive 207 GW which is approx. 52 % of total installed capacity of 513 GW. It is important to mention here that cumulative installed capacity of renewable power stations across all regions of India was 116 GW which was approx. 33.59 % of total installed capacity of 345 GW in July, 2018. This monumental figure underscores the nation’s concerted efforts to harness its abundant renewable resources and significantly diversify its energy mix. (Refer Table 1 & figure 3)
Further, the contribution and installed capacity of different RE sources are given in table 2 and depicted in figure 4 respectively.
Table -2 TOTAL INSTALLED CAPACITY RE & CONTRIBUTION (DEC 2025)
Note: SHP=Small Hydro Project (≤ 25 MW), BP=Biomass Power, U&I=Urban & Industrial Waste Power, RES=Renewable Energy Sources
4.1 Regional Distribution of Installed Capacity:
The regional distribution of renewable power capacity provides insights into the geographically diverse approach that India has adopted to propel its renewable energy agenda forward. The various regions of the country have made significant strides in harnessing renewable resources to meet their energy needs.
- Northern Region: The Northern Region has made substantial strides in renewable energy deployment, with a significant installed capacity of over 56 GW. States such as Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh have contributed prominently to this growth.
- Western Region: The Western Region is another key player in India’s renewable energy landscape, boasting an impressive installed capacity of nearly 80 GW. States like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh have been at the forefront of harnessing wind and solar energy.
- Southern Region: The Southern Region leads the nation with a remarkable installed capacity exceeding 66 GW. Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have been pioneers in embracing renewable energy sources, positioning the region as a renewable energy powerhouse.
- Eastern Region: The Eastern Region has demonstrated a growing commitment to renewable energy with an installed capacity of over 2 GW. West Bengal and Odisha have contributed to the region’s renewable energy progress.
- North Eastern Region: The North Eastern Region, comprising states like Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, has made strides in renewable energy with an installed capacity exceeding 8 GW.
- Islands: Even India’s islands are partaking in the renewable energy revolution, with a modest yet significant installed capacity of nearly 43 MW across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.
4.2 India achieved a major climate milestone: by completing its Panchamrit commitment of 50 percent electricity generation capacity from non-fossil sources in September 2025—five years ahead of the 2030 target announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This early achievement reflects India’s accelerated expansion of renewable energy, including solar, wind, hydro, and nuclear power. It underscores the country’s strong political will, policy support, and global leadership in climate action. Meeting the target ahead of schedule enhances energy security, reduces carbon emissions, and proves that sustainable development and economic growth can progress together. (Refer figure 5)
CONCLUSION
The journey of renewable energy in India, as illuminated by this research paper, unveils a story of achievements, challenges, and transformative growth. As of Dec 31, 2025, India’s installed capacity of renewable power stations stands at a monumental 207 GW, reflecting the nation’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development and energy security.
The main findings of this research underscore the remarkable progress India has made in harnessing its diverse renewable resources. The country’s regional distribution of renewable power capacity showcases a strategic and geographically diversified approach, with significant contributions from Northern, Western, Southern, Eastern, North Eastern, and Island regions. These regions have not only embraced renewable energy sources but have also demonstrated their potential for further growth.
Renewable energy’s role in India’s sustainable development cannot be overstated. The sector has emerged as a catalyst for job creation, economic growth, energy security, and environmental conservation. The proliferation of renewable energy projects has generated employment opportunities, attracted investments, and mitigated greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Moreover, renewable energy has fostered a more resilient and diversified energy mix, reducing dependency on fossil fuel imports and enhancing the nation’s energy security
In conclusion, the narrative of renewable energy’s growth in India is a testament to the nation’s vision, determination, and capacity for innovation. The achievements in capacity expansion, job creation, economic growth, and environmental conservation highlight the transformative power of renewable energy. As India continues to set ambitious targets and overcome challenges, it sets an example for the global community to emulate. The journey of renewable energy in India is not only a national success story but also a testament to the profound impact that sustainable energy can have on shaping a brighter and more prosperous future for all.
REFERENCES:
1) https://cea.nic.in/installed-capacity-report/?lang=en
2) https://mnre.gov.in
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