Rows of solar panels in a green field with mountains and clouds in the background. © GIZ/James Ochweri

Supporting India’s renewable energy ambitions

Upscaling renewable energies in India to achieve 500GW Renewable Energy Target

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  • Client

    German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)

  • Country
  • Political sponsors

    More

  • Runtime

    2025 to 2029

  • Involved

    Central Electricity Authority (CEA), National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE), Selected State Governments, State Energy Departments, Distribution Companies (DISCOMs)

  • Products and expertise

    Sustainable infrastructure: water, energy, transport

Context

India is targeting 500 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030, but significant challenges hinder progress. By the end of 2024, the country had installed over 209 GW of renewable energy, yet utilities struggle to manage surplus solar generation during the day, creating operational inefficiencies. Developers encounter delays due to inadequate transmission infrastructure and upcoming transmission charges in June 2025, disrupting project siting and investment decisions. Additionally, India's reliance on imported photovoltaic components like ingots and wafers increases costs, delays timelines, and undermines financial viability. Addressing these barriers is essential to achieving India’s renewable energy goals.

Objective

India is progressing towards its target of installing 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030.

Approach

The project focuses on the following measures to support India's renewable energy goals:

  • Promoting nearshore, offshore and repowering wind and rooftop solar technologies in collaboration with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE);
  • Providing policy advocacy at national and state contexts to enhance renewable energy adoption and promote gender equity in renewable energy development;
  • Improving institutional processes to ensure effective policy implementation and long-term impact;
  • Reforming auction processes to attract investments in nearshore and offshore wind and repowering technologies, extending the lifespan of existing infrastructure.
  • Scaling up rooftop solar by collaborating with utilities to implement digital monitoring tools, improving load management and operational efficiency.

Last update: February 2025