India Emerges as Third-Largest Producer of Clean Energy

In 2024, India became the third-largest producer of electricity from wind and solar energy, surpassing Germany. This achievement was brought into light in Ember’s Global Electricity Review, which noted that wind and solar combined contributed 15 per cent to global electricity generation. India’s share stood at 10 per cent, marking milestone in its energy transition.

Global Renewable Energy Landscape

In 2024, low-carbon sources, including renewables and nuclear power, provided 40.9 per cent of the world’s electricity. This is the first time since the 1940s that the 40 per cent threshold has been crossed. Renewables alone added a record 858 terawatt hours (TWh) to global electricity supply, representing a 49 per cent increase from the previous record in 2022.

India’s Clean Energy Contributions

In India, clean energy sources accounted for 22 per cent of electricity generation. Hydropower was the largest contributor at 8 per cent. Wind and solar together generated 10 per cent of the total electricity. Solar power has seen remarkable growth, contributing 7 per cent to India’s electricity mix, doubling its generation since 2021.

Solar Power Expansion

India added 24 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity in 2024, more than double the addition in 2023. This growth positioned India as the third-largest solar market globally, after China and the United States. The country recorded a 20 TWh increase in solar generation, making it the fourth-largest globally.

Future Challenges and Goals

Despite notable progress, India faces challenges in scaling up clean energy production to meet rising demand. As part of its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), India aims to achieve 50 per cent of its installed electric power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030. Additionally, India has set a target of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, although achieving this requires a 20 per cent annual increase in funding.

Global Energy Transition

Phil MacDonald, Ember’s managing director, stated that solar power has become the driving force behind the global energy transition. It is critical for meeting the increasing demand for electricity. The clean energy transition in Asia is accelerating, with India at the forefront, aiming to strengthen energy security and economic resilience.

Ember’s Data and Analysis

Ember’s report covers 88 countries that account for 93 per cent of global electricity demand. It includes historical data for 215 countries. The analysis shows that a robust clean energy market is essential for the continued expansion of renewable energy sources.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of renewable energy on global electricity markets.
2. What are the key challenges India faces in achieving its renewable energy targets? Discuss.
3. Estimate the role of solar energy in reducing global carbon emissions.
4. Point out the significance of international cooperation in addressing climate change and promoting renewable energy.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of renewable energy on global electricity markets.

1. Renewable energy sources have increased their share in global electricity generation, reaching 40.9% in 2024.
2. Wind and solar energy contributed 15% to global electricity, indicating a shift towards sustainable energy solutions.
3. The growth in renewables has led to decreased reliance on fossil fuels, impacting energy prices and market dynamics.
4. Emerging markets, like India, are becoming major players in renewable energy, influencing global supply chains and investment patterns.
5. Technological advancements and decreasing costs of renewables are reshaping energy policies and market structures worldwide.

2. What are the key challenges India faces in achieving its renewable energy targets? Discuss.

1. Funding – India needs a 20% annual increase in funding to meet its renewable energy capacity target of 500 GW by 2030.
2. Infrastructure – Insufficient infrastructure for energy storage and distribution hampers the integration of renewable sources.
3. Regulatory hurdles – Complex regulatory frameworks can delay project approvals and implementation timelines.
4. Demand-supply mismatch – Rapidly rising electricity demand poses challenges in scaling clean energy production.
5. Technological gaps – India needs to invest in technology and skilled workforce to enhance renewable energy efficiency.

3. Estimate the role of solar energy in reducing global carbon emissions.

1. Solar energy has become the fastest-growing power source, contributing to reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
2. In 2024, solar power generation doubled, indicating its potential for substantial carbon emissions reduction.
3. As a clean source, solar energy helps decrease greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.
4. Global solar capacity additions support international climate targets, aiding in limiting global warming to below 2°C.
5. Solar power paired with battery storage enhances grid reliability and reduces emissions from conventional energy sources.

4. Point out the significance of international cooperation in addressing climate change and promoting renewable energy.

1. International cooperation facilitates technology transfer and sharing of best practices for renewable energy deployment.
2. Joint investments in clean energy projects can accelerate progress towards global climate goals.
3. Collaborative efforts in research and development can lead to innovative solutions for energy challenges.
4. Global agreements, such as the Paris Accord, establish frameworks for nations to commit to reducing emissions collectively.
5. Cooperation enhances resilience against climate impacts, ensuring energy security and sustainable economic growth worldwide.