India’s solar surge: 138% jump in 4 years as floating projects get ₹5,070 crore boost
Solar now accounts for 9.5% of India’s electricity, with Varanasi leading rooftop adoption—17,698 households now pay zero bills.
India’s solar power generation has nearly tripled in four years, rising 138% from 73.48 billion units in 2021-22 to 174.76 billion units in 2025-26, according to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. Solar’s share of the country’s total electricity output has grown from 4.95% to 9.50% over the same period.
The government’s push for renewable energy includes a ₹5,070 crore floating solar scheme, approved for projects sanctioned between FY27 and FY31. These projects will include a two-hour storage provision to enhance grid stability.
Under the PM Suryaghar scheme, India aims to install rooftop solar systems in 10 million households, targeting a total capacity of 30 GW by the end of this fiscal year. Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s parliamentary constituency, has emerged as a model for adoption. More than 50,000 households in the district have installed rooftop solar systems, with 17,698 consumers now receiving zero electricity bills. The district has developed over 150 MW of solar capacity, generating nearly 7.5 lakh units of clean electricity daily.
India’s non-fossil energy capacity has crossed 300 GW, with solar contributing 164.59 GW, followed by wind (58.14 GW) and hydropower (57.24 GW). The government has also set a target of 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047, with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) expected to contribute nearly half. However, India’s future nuclear fleet may require approximately 5,400 tonnes of uranium annually, with domestic output currently meeting only 30% of this demand.
The Indian Biogas Association (IBA) projects a $5 billion reduction in the gas import bill due to the ₹23,731-crore GOBARdhan Scheme, which converts organic waste into clean energy. The scheme is expected to reduce natural gas imports by at least one-third, easing pressure on the trade deficit and fertiliser subsidies.
Rooftop solar adoption accelerates Varanasi’s success highlights the potential of decentralised solar energy. The district’s rooftop solar plants generate clean electricity worth over ₹51 lakh daily, reducing dependence on conventional power sources. Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA) officials noted that public awareness and policy incentives have driven adoption.
Floating solar and storage The ₹5,070 crore floating solar scheme aims to expand India’s solar capacity while addressing land constraints. Projects under the scheme will include storage solutions to ensure reliable power supply, a critical factor for grid integration.
Broader renewable energy goals India’s renewable energy expansion aligns with its commitment to reduce carbon emissions. The country’s non-fossil capacity now accounts for a significant portion of its energy mix, with solar leading the growth. The government’s focus on nuclear and biogas further diversifies its clean energy portfolio.
