India is making significant strides in renewable energy and particularly solar power as part of its commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2070. 

As of now, India’s total installed solar capacity has crossed 72 GW making it the third largest in Asia and fourth in the world in terms of solar power generation. This blog explores the top five states leading the way in solar power generation in India.

State-wise Solar Power Capacity

As of April 2024, India’s installed solar energy capacity has reached an impressive 82.63 GW showcasing the country’s steadfast commitment to expanding its renewable energy portfolio. The state-wise breakdown of solar power capacity reveals the leading contributors to this remarkable achievement.

1) Rajasthan

Solar Power in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is the front-runner in solar power generation in India boasting a solar power capacity of 17.8 GW. The state has the highest solar power potential due to its vast arid land and high solar irradiation.

The Bhadla Solar Park located in the Jodhpur district is the largest solar power plant in India with a capacity of 2,245 MW. This solar park spans 1400 acres and has been developed in phases by various stakeholders including Adani Renewable Energy Park Rajasthan and Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation Limited.

Key Projects

• Bhadla Solar Park has a 2,245 MW capacity and is the largest in the world.
• Nokh Solar Park has a 925 MW capacity located in the Jaisalmer district and is expected to be completed by September 2024.

2) Gujarat

Solar Power in Gujarat

Gujarat follows closely with a solar power capacity of 10,133 MW and has been a pioneer in solar energy. Gujarat Solar Park 1 (Charanka Solar Park) is one of the earliest and largest solar parks in the country. The state has a robust solar policy which has been instrumental in promoting solar energy through various initiatives. The state’s strategic initiatives such as the development of solar parks and a solar-wind hybrid policy have significantly contributed to its solar energy capacity. 

Key Projects

• Gujarat Solar Park 1 has a 615 MW capacity located in the Patan district.
• The 15 MW Solar Power Plant is located in Gujarat contributing to local energy needs and reducing carbon emissions.

3) Karnataka

Solar Power in Karnataka

Karnataka has been a significant contributor to India’s solar with a solar power capacity of 9,050 MW stands third in the list of top solar-powered states in India. The state’s Pavagada Solar Park, once the world’s largest solar power plant highlights Karnataka’s significant contributions to India’s solar energy sector. This solar park, also known as Shakti Sthala is spread over 13000 acres in the Tumkur district and has a capacity of 2,050 MW making it the second largest solar park in India.

Key Projects

• Pavagada Solar Park has a 2,050 MW capacity and has been operational since 2019.
• Karnataka II Solar Park has a 27 MW capacity and is located in Koppal district.

 4) Tamil Nadu

Solar Power in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu has a solar power capacity of 6,892 MW and not only focuses on solar energy but also harnesses wind power. The state’s balanced approach to renewable energy has made it a key player in India’s green energy transition.

Tamil Nadu has a strong focus on both solar and wind energy making it a significant player in India’s renewable landscape. The state has several large scale solar projects contributing to its renewable energy mix.

 5) Maharashtra

Solar Power in Maharashtra

With a solar power capacity of 4, 870 MW, Maharashtra leads in open access solar setups allowing consumers to buy solar power directly from producers. The state’s innovative policies have fostered a conducive environment for solar energy adoption.

Maharashtra is a leader in open access solar setups and has the second largest open access installed capacity in India. 

The state has implemented policies to promote renewable energy in commercial and industrial segments such as reducing the minimum sanctioned load limit for renewable energy projects and increasing the net metering cap for rooftop solar projects to 5 MW.

India’s Solar Energy Potential and Targets

India’s solar energy potential is estimated to be 748 GWP, as per the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE). This country has set an ambitious target of achieving 500 GW of installed capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030, with solar energy playing a crucial role in reaching this goal.

Policy Initiatives and Investments

The Indian government has introduced several policy initiatives and schemes to promote solar energy. The National Solar Mission aimed at establishing India as a global leader in solar energy, has been instrumental in the sector’s growth. Furthermore, the government’s focus on solar parks, rooftop solar installations, and solar wind hybrid projects underscores its commitment to renewable energy.

Challenges and Opportunities

While India’s solar energy sector has witnessed exponential growth and challenges such as land acquisition, grid integration and financing persist. Addressing these challenges through innovative solutions and policy forms will be crucial for sustaining the sector’s growth trajectory.

The Road Ahead

India’s solar power surge is a testament to the country’s resolve to embrace renewable energy and reduce its carbon footprint. As this nation continues to make strides in solar energy, state progress coupled with supportive policies and investments will be pivotal in achieving India’s renewable energy targets.

The nation’s ambitious renewable energy targets coupled with its vast solar energy potential positions India as a key player in the global renewable energy landscape. As India continues to harness solar power, the collective efforts of the government, industry, and citizens will be instrumental in realizing a sustainable and energy secure future.

India’s journey towards achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2070 is heavily reliant on the expansion of its solar power capacity. The top five states Rajasthan, Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra are leading the way in solar power generation, each contributing significantly to the country’s renewable energy goals.