India has overtaken Germany to become the world’s third-largest generator of electricity from wind and solar power, marking a significant milestone in the country’s clean energy transition. According to the sixth edition of Ember’s Global Electricity Review, India achieved this feat in 2024, with wind and solar together accounting for 10% of the nation’s electricity generation, surpassing Germany’s output from these sources.
India’s rapid progress is reflected in its addition of 24 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity in 2024; more than double the previous year, making it the third-largest solar market after China and the United States. The country also recorded the fourth-largest increase in solar generation globally, adding 20 terawatt hours (TWh) in 2024. Over the past five years, India’s wind and solar output nearly doubled, rising from 110 TWh to 215 TWh, while clean power generation overall rose by 32 TWh (+7.4%) in 2024, meeting a third of the year’s increase in electricity demand.
Globally, wind and solar generated 15% of all electricity in 2024, with India’s share standing at 10%. Clean sources including renewables and nuclear, provided 22% of India’s electricity, with hydropower contributing 8%. This growth comes as India’s power demand continues to rise, expanding by 5% in 2024, the third-largest increase worldwide.
Experts highlight that solar power has become the engine of the global energy transition, with battery storage and rapid capacity additions making it an “unstoppable force” in meeting rising electricity needs. However, analysts also note that India faces the ongoing challenge of ensuring clean generation grows fast enough to keep pace with surging demand.
India’s achievement signals its growing leadership in renewable energy, strengthening energy security and economic resilience, and positioning the nation as a key player in the global shift toward sustainable power.
