India’s renewable energy potential stood at 47,04,043 MW as on 31 March 2025. The National Statistics Office (NSO) under MoSPI released this figure on 30 March 2026. Notably, it appears in Energy Statistics India 2026, the 33rd edition of the annual publication. Moreover, solar energy alone makes up about 71% of this potential. Therefore, the data gives a clear base for clean energy planning.
Solar Dominates the Estimate
Solar potential now stands at 33,43,378 MW, as per the 2024-25 estimate. In comparison, the 2023-24 estimate was only 7,48,990 MW. So, the solar estimate rose more than four times in one year. Next, wind follows with 11,63,856 MW. Meanwhile, large hydro adds 1,33,410 MW. Together, these three sources make up almost the entire potential.
Six States Hold Over 70%
Six states hold more than 70% of India’s renewable potential. Rajasthan leads with 23.70%. After that come Maharashtra at 14.26% and Gujarat at 9.10%. Then, Andhra Pradesh follows at 9.1% and Karnataka at 8.59%. Finally, Madhya Pradesh holds 8.09%. Thus, Rajasthan alone holds nearly a quarter of the national potential.
Capacity and Generation Trends
Installed renewable capacity grew from 90,134 MW in March 2016 to 2,29,346 MW in March 2025. That equals a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.93%. Similarly, renewable generation more than doubled to 4,16,823 GWh in 2024-25. However, coal, including lignite, still remains the largest source of energy supply. Also, transmission and distribution losses fell from about 22% to about 17%.
About Energy Statistics India
MoSPI’s National Statistics Office brings out Energy Statistics India every year. Also, the publication covers reserves, capacity, production, consumption and the energy balance.
Renewable Energy Potential: Key Facts for Revision
- Total potential: 47,04,043 MW (as on 31 March 2025)
- Solar: 33,43,378 MW, about 71% of the total
- Wind: 11,63,856 MW
- Large hydro: 1,33,410 MW
- Top state: Rajasthan, 23.70% of the potential
- Six-state share: Over 70% (Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh)
- Publisher: NSO, MoSPI (33rd edition)
Why Renewable Energy Potential Matters for UPSC and UKPSC
Notably, examiners often ask about state rankings and the source-wise split. So, remember the 71% solar share, Rajasthan’s top rank and the six-state concentration. Also, link this data with India’s new climate pledge on NDC 2031-2035. For official updates, also visit MoSPI. Next, for a related story, read about PM Surya Sarovar Yojana.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.