In a major stride toward renewable energy expansion, Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced that India’s solar capacity has grown by an astonishing 4,000%, taking the total renewable energy capacity to 227 GW. According to a statement by Press Information Bureau, speaking at the 11th India Energy Storage Week (IESW), Goyal also unveiled a ₹1 lakh crore innovation fund focused on advancing next-generation battery technologies – marking a major leap in India’s energy self-reliance mission.
Record Solar Milestone & Policy Achievements
Goyal emphasized that India is likely the first G20 nation to meet its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement through rapid solar energy growth. Over the last decade, solar photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturing capacity has increased nearly 38 times, while PV cell production has surged 21-fold.
The PM Surya Ghar Yojana continues to benefit over one lakh households daily by enabling rooftop solar installations. The scheme aims to bring solar panels to 10 million homes, helping citizens reduce their power bills and gain energy independence. Simultaneously, the PM Kusum Yojana is transforming rural India by promoting solar-powered agricultural pumps.
Next‑Gen Innovation Fund: ₹1 Lakh Cr for Battery Ecosystem
A key highlight of Goyal’s address was the announcement of a ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development & Innovation Fund to drive battery ecosystem growth in India. Recently approved by the Union Cabinet, the fund will support cutting-edge technologies in energy storage, including solid-state batteries and hybrid solutions.
The goal is to develop advanced battery chemistries suited to India’s diverse needs and promote a circular economy with domestic capabilities in recycling, rare-earth processing, and sustainable production.
Production Linked Incentives & EV Infrastructure
To further strengthen clean mobility, the government has launched a Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cells (ACC). This initiative aims to boost domestic battery manufacturing and encourage investments in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure.
Goyal stressed the importance of building robust EV charging networks and battery-swapping infrastructure, especially in urban and semi-urban areas. This will ensure that India’s growing EV fleet is supported by a reliable and efficient energy system.
Holistic Four‑Pronged Strategy for Self‑Reliance
The minister presented a comprehensive strategy to enhance India’s energy independence and reduce reliance on imports:
- Targeted Innovation – Promote battery research tailored to Indian use-cases and climate.
- Infrastructure Build-Out – Establish charging stations and battery-swapping networks nationwide.
- Supply Chain Resilience – Develop local sourcing of raw materials and component manufacturing.
- Full Value Chain Development – Encourage mining, cell assembly, pack manufacturing, recycling, and semiconductor integration within India.
From Carbon-Neutral Villages to National Models
Goyal cited Palli village in Jammu & Kashmir as a shining example of India’s green transition. The village, which became the country’s first carbon-neutral panchayat, showcases how solar energy, energy-efficient appliances, and water conservation can create truly sustainable communities.
Even the IESW venue itself—Yashobhoomi—is a model of green architecture, powered by rooftop solar and equipped with wastewater recycling systems and energy-efficient infrastructure.
Storage Technologies: Backbone of Renewable Integration
With renewable energy forming an increasing share of India’s power mix, storage technologies have become essential. Goyal highlighted the need for a combination of battery storage, pumped hydro, geothermal, and even nuclear-based storage systems to maintain grid stability and ensure 24/7 clean power availability.
India’s roadmap includes deploying large-scale battery systems to support its peak-hour power needs and integrating decentralized storage into both urban and rural power grids.
Setting Eyes on the 500 GW 2030 Target
Reaffirming India’s commitment, the minister noted that the country is well on track to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2030. With strong government support, innovation-driven growth, and a vibrant manufacturing ecosystem, India is poised to become a global leader in renewable energy.
The Road Ahead
India’s clean energy journey—from 4,000% solar capacity growth to the establishment of a ₹1 lakh crore innovation fund—is both ambitious and inspiring. The real test now lies in effective implementation, investment in R&D, and robust infrastructure development. As the world eyes energy transition milestones, India is carving its place at the forefront of the green revolution, setting a template for emerging economies to follow.
Photo Credit: AI
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