India Power Capacity Set to Double to 1,121 GW by 2035-36, Clean Energy to Lead Growth
New Delhi, March 19: India is preparing for a major expansion in its power generation capacity over the next decade, with a clear tilt towards clean energy, according to a government projection released on Thursday.Installed Power Capacity to More Than Double
The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has projected that India’s total installed power capacity will surge from the current 520 gigawatts (GW) to 1,121 GW by 2035-36. This marks a significant scale-up aimed at meeting the country’s rapidly rising electricity demand.Non-Fossil Fuels to Contribute 70 Percent
A key highlight of the projection is the growing dominance of non-fossil fuel sources, which are expected to account for around 70 percent of the total installed capacity by 2035-36. This reflects India’s continued push towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy mix.Solar and Wind to Drive Renewable Expansion
Renewable energy is set to lead the capacity addition, with solar and wind emerging as the primary drivers. Solar power capacity is projected to reach 509 GW, while wind energy is expected to contribute 155 GW.Other clean energy sources, including large hydropower, nuclear energy, biomass, and small hydropower, will also play a supporting role in diversifying the energy portfolio.
Coal Capacity to Remain Significant for Stability
Despite the strong push towards renewables, coal-based power will continue to hold a substantial share, with capacity projected at 315 GW. This is expected to ensure grid stability and meet base load requirements.Clear Roadmap Under Generation Adequacy Plan
The CEA, in its Generation Adequacy Plan, stated that a cost-effective strategy has been developed to meet future electricity demand. The report provides clear visibility on planned capacity additions through 2035-36, with multiple projects already under construction or in advanced planning stages.Energy Storage to Play a Critical Role
Energy storage is expected to become a crucial component of the power ecosystem. India plans to add 174 GW of storage capacity, including battery energy storage systems and pumped storage projects.These solutions will help address the intermittent nature of renewable energy and support a stable and reliable power supply.
Projects Under Construction Across Segments
The report highlights strong execution momentum across both conventional and renewable segments. More than 40 GW of coal-based capacity is currently under construction, with additional projects in the pipeline.In the renewable sector, around 155 GW of capacity is under construction, alongside further projects in tendering and planning phases.
Expansion in Nuclear and Hydropower Capacity
India is also stepping up investments in nuclear and hydropower. Several nuclear projects are under construction or awaiting approval, while hydropower and pumped storage projects are being developed to strengthen long-term energy security.Rising Power Demand to Drive Capacity Growth
The aggressive expansion plan comes amid steadily rising electricity demand in the country. The CEA projects peak power demand to grow at an annual rate of 5.58 percent, reaching 459 GW by 2035-36.Meanwhile, total electricity requirement is expected to increase at a faster pace of 6.41 percent annually, underscoring the need for sustained capacity addition across energy sources.
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