India ranks 3rd globally in Solar Power capacity, (IRENA 2025) with 1.16 GW production. Solar energy is critical for objective of 500 GW of clean energy by 2030.
Benefits of Deriving Electric Energy from Sunlight vs Conventional Energy Generation
Sunlight is inexhaustible, unlike fossil fuels that are finite and depleting. India receives 4-7 kWh/m²/day solar radiation.
Enhances Energy Security – Reduces dependence on imported coal, oil, and gas. (India imports over 85% of crude oil)
Once installed, solar projects have minimal maintenance and no fuel cost, unlike thermal plants dependent on continuous coal supply.
Decentralised and Inclusive – Solar energy supports off-grid and rooftop systems. Eg- Solar Pumps under PM Kusum
Promotes Improved Public Health – Solar reduces air pollution-related diseases linked with thermal power. Eg- asthma, cardiovascular illnesses.
Solar energy is critical for achieving India’s NDC targets of 50% non-fossil electricity by 2030 and Net Zero by 2070.
Generates Green Jobs in solar manufacturing, installation, maintenance. India’s RE sector employs 3.7 lakh+ workers (IRENA 2024).
Government Initiatives to Promote Solar Energy in India
National Solar Mission – Target of 280 GW solar capacity by 2030.
PM-KUSUM Scheme – Promotes solar pumps and solarisation of agricultural feeders.
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (2024) – Supports rooftop solar installation for households with subsidy and free electricity up to 300 units/month.
Solar Parks and Ultra Mega Solar Power Projects – Eg- Bhadla (Rajasthan) and Pavagada (Karnataka). (target of 40 GW by March 2026)
PLI Scheme – Encourages domestic manufacturing of high-efficiency solar PV modules and cells.
Green Energy Corridor – Strengthens transmission infrastructure.
International Solar Alliance (ISA) – India’s global initiative to promote solar energy in tropical countries.
Solar Cities Programme – Promotes solar-based infrastructure in urban and semi-urban areas.
PM JANMAN: electrifying one lakh un-electrified households in Tribal and PVTG habitations across 18 states
State-level initiatives
SMART Solar Scheme (Maharashtra) – Offers subsidies up to 95% for 1 kW rooftop solar system
Indira Soura Giri Jala Vikasam (Telangana) – 100% subsidy for solar-powered irrigation systems
These initiatives underscore India’s vision of inclusive, secure, and clean energy for all (SDG -7).