India is ranked fourth globally in installed renewable energy (RE) capacity. Yet, the country has achieved only 32% of its RE target (500 GW by 2030) as of 30 November 2024. While decisions and actions at the central level are crucial, there is a need to focus on sub-national efforts as India is a diverse country with each state having unique challenges and opportunities that are shaped by its geography, resources, and consumer mix.
States such as Kerala, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Chhattisgarh have already announced their net-zero goals, showcasing their readiness to spearhead India’s green transition. Gujarat aims to achieve 68 GW of RE capacity by 2030, while Tamil Nadu has committed to reducing its emissions intensity significantly over the same period. Similarly, Rajasthan, blessed with abundant solar potential, is targeting 90 GW of RE capacity by 2030. While this is critical, there is a need to develop clear state-level action plans for an accelerated and smooth energy transition.
Such action plans will also help in overcoming hurdles specific to each state. For example, Kerala, known for its high literacy rate and human development indices, is uniquely positioned to lead the energy transition. However, the state's dependence on energy imports and limited land availability for large-scale renewable projects pose challenges. West Bengal, with its rich coal-mining legacy, has a significant share from thermal in the overall installed capacity. Punjab, with low solar and wind potential, experienced a substantial rise in its electricity consumption post COVID-19 and due to the implementation of the subsidised power supply policy to domestic and agricultural consumers. Assam needs solutions that can be aligned to its dispersed population and hilly terrain, making centralised energy systems less effective and creating a case for decentralised renewables.
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