Total Installed Capacity of Grid Interactive Renewable Power in India from 2007 to 2022, by State

India has seen a remarkable transformation in its renewable energy sector. At the national level, the total installed capacity of renewable energy grew exponentially from 10,256 MW in 2007 to 109,885 MW in 2022 – representing a nearly 970% increase over 15 years. This dramatic growth reflects India’s strong commitment to sustainable energy development and its response to global climate change challenges. Among the states, Gujarat’s renewable energy sector’s capacity showed exceptional growth from 644 MW in 2007 to 16,588 MW in 2022. This achievement can be attributed to the state’s progressive energy policies and favourable geographical conditions for both solar and wind power. Tamil Nadu, which benefited greatly due to its significant wind energy potential, also continuously maintained its position as a leader in producing renewable energy, growing from 3,802 MW in 2007 to 16,099 MW in 2022. On the other hand, another southern state, Karnataka, increased its capacity from 1,493 MW in 2007 to 15,905 MW in 2022. The state’s policies and the installation of central solar parks caused capacity to nearly double between 2017 and 2018. Rajasthan and Maharashtra also exhibited remarkable growth patterns. Rajasthan utilised its extensive desert regions to develop solar electricity, significantly increasing its renewable capacity from 517 MW in 2007 to 17,041 MW in 2022. The combined renewable energy capacity of the southern states (Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu) was higher than that of the northeastern states, which were possibly constrained by infrastructure and geography. It is noteworthy that even smaller states and union territories have begun to participate in the renewable energy revolution. For example, Chandigarh’s capacity increased from zero to 55 MW, and Delhi’s capacity reached 270 MW by 2022. A notable acceleration in growth is visible across most of the Indian states from 2015 onwards, coinciding with India’s enhanced climate commitments and the launch of central national solar and wind energy initiatives. The period between 2015 and 2019 showed particularly aggressive capacity addition, and as a result, national capacity increased more than two times. Despite their large geographical areas, some states like Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh showed moderate but steady growth, suggesting potential for further expansion. This comprehensive growth in renewable energy capacity across India represents a fundamental shift in the country’s energy landscape, moving from traditional fossil fuel dependency toward a more sustainable energy future. The variations in state-wise development also highlight the influence of local policies, geographical conditions, and infrastructure readiness in renewable energy adoption.