India’s solar power generation has witnessed remarkable growth over the past four years, increasing by nearly 138% from 73.48 billion units (BU) in FY 2021-22 to 174.76 BU in FY 2025-26, according to data shared by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in Parliament.
The ministry stated that solar energy’s contribution to the country’s total electricity generation has also increased significantly during the period, rising from 4.95% in FY22 to 9.50% in FY26, highlighting the rapid expansion of India’s solar energy sector.
Solar Generation Continues Strong Growth in FY27
The momentum has continued into the current financial year. According to data from the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), India generated 62.79 billion units of solar power during April-June FY2026-27.
During the same period, the country produced 521.82 billion units of electricity from all sources, with solar accounting for 12.03% of total generation. Renewable energy as a whole contributed 137.81 billion units, representing 26.41% of the country’s electricity generation.
Renewable Energy Capacity Crosses 52%
The ministry informed Parliament that renewable energy sources now account for 52.6% of India’s installed electricity generation capacity as of June 2026. However, their contribution to actual electricity generation stands at around 26%, reflecting the operational characteristics of renewable energy technologies.
Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy and Power Shripad Yesso Naik explained that renewable sources such as solar and wind have relatively lower capacity utilisation factors compared to conventional thermal power plants because they are weather-dependent and intermittent.
Overall Renewable Generation Expands
India’s total electricity generation increased from 1,484.36 billion units in FY22 to 1,840.11 billion units in FY26.
During the same period, total renewable energy generation—including solar, wind, biomass, bagasse, small hydro, large hydro and other renewable sources—grew from 322.53 billion units (21.73%) in FY22 to 477.78 billion units (25.96%) in FY26.
Solar energy maintained consistent year-on-year growth throughout the period, increasing from 102.01 BU in FY23 to 115.97 BU in FY24, 144.15 BU in FY25, before reaching 174.76 BU in FY26.
Supporting India’s Clean Energy Transition
The continued growth in solar generation reflects India’s ongoing investment in renewable energy infrastructure as the country works towards its long-term clean energy and climate goals. Rising solar capacity, along with improvements in transmission infrastructure and energy storage, is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening energy security while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
