New Delhi : As India strives to achieve the ambitious target of 500 gigawatts (GW) of non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2030, set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country has already become a “solar superpower,” according to Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
Speaking at a media event in the capital on Saturday, Stiell lauded India’s proactive approach to climate action, stating, “While some governments talk, India takes action, prioritising sustainable growth and energy security.”
Under the leadership of PM Modi, India has not only committed to climate action but has also positioned itself as a global leader in the fight against climate change, with a strong focus on clean and renewable energy.
“Ensuring energy access while tackling climate change is crucial,” Stiell emphasized, highlighting India’s ambitious plans to expand its clean energy infrastructure at the ET NOW Global Business Summit 2025. “Under PM Modi’s leadership, India is expanding clean energy, cutting carbon intensity, and driving a green economy,” he added.
India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 aligns with global targets, showcasing its determination to play a vital role in global sustainability efforts. Stiell further praised India’s efforts, noting, “As global climate action intensifies, India is leading in sustainability, clean technology, and climate finance, positioning itself as a future clean energy superpower.”
He also encouraged India to formulate an ambitious climate plan that encompasses its entire economy to ensure sustainable development and global leadership in addressing climate challenges.
India has already made significant progress in the renewable energy sector, recently surpassing a historic milestone of 100 GW of installed solar power capacity. As of January 31, India’s total installed solar capacity stands at 100.33 GW, with 84.10 GW under implementation and an additional 47.49 GW in the tendering process.
The country’s energy transformation over the past decade has been nothing short of extraordinary. Initiatives such as solar panels, solar parks, and rooftop solar projects have led to groundbreaking changes in the energy landscape.
A game-changer in India’s clean energy journey is the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, launched in 2024. This ambitious scheme is making rooftop solar a reality for millions of households, and as of now, nearly 9 lakh installations have been completed, enabling families across the country to access clean, renewable energy.
Over the last decade, India’s solar power sector has witnessed an astonishing 3,450% increase in capacity, soaring from just 2.82 GW in 2014 to 100 GW in 2025. This remarkable growth underscores the country’s dedication to sustainable energy and positions it as a global leader in the renewable energy space.
As India continues its green energy transition, the world will likely watch as the nation accelerates its efforts toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. With the government’s unwavering commitment to reducing carbon emissions and expanding clean energy sources, India is not only shaping its own future but is also contributing significantly to global climate action.