India's Renewable Energy Growth: Solar Power, Nuclear Power & More

As the world grapples with climate change and dwindling fossil fuel reserves, India stands out for its ambitious strides towards renewable energy. With a rapidly growing economy and a population exceeding 1.4 billion, India recognises the imperative to transition from traditional energy sources to more sustainable alternatives. The country's commitment to renewable energy is not just a strategy for environmental sustainability but also a pathway to energy security and economic growth. On Indian Akshay Urja Day, Local Samosa explores India's journey in renewable energy, focusing on solar power, nuclear power, and other key sources.

Solar Power: Pioneering a Green Revolution

India's foray into solar power began with the launch of the National Solar Mission in 2010, a key component of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). This initiative aimed to harness the country’s abundant solar potential and significantly scale up the solar power capacity. Initially, India's solar power capacity was modest, but the mission sparked rapid growth.

As of 2024, India has become a global leader in solar energy. The country's installed solar capacity has surged to approximately 53.47 gigawatts (GW), marking a substantial leap from earlier years. Notable achievements include the commissioning of the world's largest solar park, the Pavagada Solar Park in Karnataka, which boasts a capacity of 2,050 megawatts (MW). Additionally, India’s ambitious target is to achieve 280 GW of solar capacity by 2030.

Key Players in India’s Solar Energy Sector

• Tata Power Solar: A subsidiary of Tata Power, it is one of the largest solar manufacturers in India, offering both solar panels and complete solar solutions.
• Adani Green Energy Limited: A major player with extensive investments in solar power projects across the country.
• Renew Power: Known for its substantial solar installations and a commitment to expanding renewable energy projects.

In June 2024, Tata Power Solar launched a nationwide solar power initiative from Jodhpur, aiming to expand solar adoption across India. The drive includes a range of residential, commercial, and industrial solar solutions. This initiative is part of Tata Power Solar's broader commitment to advancing renewable energy in the country.

Nuclear Power: A Strategic Component

India’s nuclear energy journey began with its first nuclear power plant commissioned in 1969 at Tarapur. The country's nuclear strategy has evolved, focusing on developing indigenous technology and expanding nuclear capacity. The Atomic Energy Act of 1962 laid the foundation for India’s nuclear program, which is driven by the need for a stable, low-carbon energy source.

India's nuclear power capacity stands at around 7.9 GW as of 2024, with significant plans for expansion. The country has set a target to increase this capacity to 22.5 GW by 2030. Noteworthy projects include the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant in Tamil Nadu, which features reactors with a combined capacity of 2,000 MW.

Key Players in India’s Nuclear Power Sector

• Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL): Responsible for operating India's nuclear power plants and spearheading new projects.
• Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC): Plays a crucial role in research and development for nuclear technology.

Currently, CORE Energy Systems is leading the refurbishment of the Tarapur Atomic Power Station (TAPS) in India, focusing on upgrading its infrastructure and extending its operational life. The project under NPCIL aims to enhance the plant’s efficiency and safety. This refurbishment aligns with India's goals to boost its nuclear energy capacity and ensure sustainable power generation.

Wind Power: Harnessing the Breeze

Wind power in India began in the early 1990s, with the first commercial wind farm established in 1995 in Tamil Nadu. The sector has grown significantly, driven by favourable policies and a robust wind resource base.

India’s wind power capacity reached approximately 47.07 GW in 2024. The country aims to enhance this capacity to 60 GW by 2030. Major wind farms include the Jaisalmer Wind Park in Rajasthan, which is one of the largest in the world.

Key Players in India’s Wind Power Sector

• Suzlon Energy: One of the leading wind turbine manufacturers in India, with a substantial footprint in the wind power sector.
• Vestas India: A major player in the wind turbine industry, involved in both manufacturing and project development.

In May 2024, Suzlon secured an 819 MW order for its 3 MW series wind turbines from Oyster Green Hybrid One Private Limited. This deal marks a significant expansion of Suzlon's wind energy projects. The order supports the broader push towards renewable energy and sustainable power solutions.

Biomass and Hydro Power: Complementary Sources

Biomass Power

India has harnessed biomass power since the early 2000s. Biomass energy plants utilise agricultural and industrial waste to produce electricity. As of 2024, India’s biomass power capacity is approximately 10 GW, with future expansion plans focused on improving technology and efficiency.

The Mohol-Bhima Biomass Power Project in India generates 20 MW of electricity using agricultural waste and other biomass materials. Located in Maharashtra, it enhances renewable energy capacity and supports local agriculture. The project is a key component of India's strategy to increase biomass energy production and sustainability.

Hydro Power

Hydro power has been a significant part of India's energy mix for decades, with the first large-scale hydroelectric project commissioned in 1965. India’s current hydro power capacity stands at about 47.5 GW. The focus for future development includes enhancing small and micro-hydro projects.

The Polavaram Hydroelectric Project in India has set two world records: the highest installed capacity and the largest volume of water used for energy production. Managed by Tractebel Engie, it represents a significant advancement in hydroelectric technology. This achievement underscores India's growing leadership in renewable energy infrastructure.

The Future of Renewable Energy in India

India’s renewable energy sector stands at a pivotal moment, with the potential for substantial growth driven by ambitious targets, strategic investments, and evolving technologies. The government’s proactive approach to fostering a green energy transition is a testament to its commitment to both climate goals and economic development. Additionally, India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, underscoring its ambitious commitment to renewable energy.

Budgetary Measures and Policy Support

The Indian government has demonstrated strong support for renewable energy through its budgetary allocations and policy frameworks. In the Union Budget 2024, the Finance Minister highlighted several measures aimed at boosting the renewable energy sector. These include increased funding for clean energy projects, incentives for green technology adoption, and subsidies for research and development in renewable energy. The budget emphasises the importance of integrating renewable energy into the national grid and enhancing infrastructure to support the growing capacity.

Key Budgetary Highlights

• Increased Allocation: A significant rise in funding for renewable energy projects, focusing on solar, wind, and biomass energy.
• Tax Incentives: Enhanced tax benefits for companies investing in green technologies and renewable energy infrastructure.
• Green Bonds: Introduction of green bonds to attract private investment into the renewable energy sector.

These measures are expected to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy projects and facilitate the development of new technologies.

Strategic Investments and Technological Innovations

The future of renewable energy in India will be shaped by continued investment in technology and infrastructure. The government and private sector are actively involved in several strategic initiatives.

• Off-Grid Solutions: Expansion of off-grid solar solutions to provide electricity in remote and underserved areas. This includes the installation of solar home systems and mini-grids.
• Storage Technologies: Development of advanced energy storage solutions to address the intermittency of solar and wind power. Investments in battery storage and other technologies are crucial for maintaining a stable energy supply.
• Green Hydrogen: Promotion of green hydrogen as a future energy source. India is investing in research and development to harness green hydrogen for industrial use and transportation.

Major Companies Driving Growth

Several Indian and international companies are pivotal in advancing the country’s renewable energy sector.

• Tata Power Solar: Continues to expand its solar panel manufacturing and project development capabilities, contributing significantly to India’s solar capacity.
• Adani Green Energy Limited: A major player with extensive investments in solar and wind power projects, and a key contributor to India’s renewable energy goals.
• NTPC Limited: India’s largest energy conglomerate, which is increasingly focusing on renewable energy and has set targets to enhance its green energy portfolio.
• Greenko Group: Specialises in integrated renewable energy solutions, including solar, wind, and storage technologies.

India’s renewable energy sector is on a trajectory of rapid growth and transformation. The strategic measures outlined in the Union Budget 2024, coupled with significant investments in technology and infrastructure, are set to propel the country towards its ambitious energy targets. By continuing to leverage solar, wind, nuclear, and other renewable sources, India is not only advancing its energy security but also setting a global benchmark for sustainable development. The country’s future in renewable energy looks promising, with the potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and contribute to global climate goals.

Sources: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI), Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and Press Information Bureau (PIB).