India has around 125 GW of solar energy capacity, making it the third largest solar producer globally, as stated by Pralhad Joshi, the Minister of New and Renewable Energy.

Because of its clear vision and reliable policies, India reached its renewable energy goals five years earlier than planned, surpassing the 50 percent threshold in total installed electricity capacity derived from non-fossil sources, the minister stated at the event leading up to the 8th session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) assembly, set to take place from October 27-30 in the national capital.

Initiated by India and France during COP21 in Paris, the ISA stands as the largest treaty-based intergovernmental organization from the Global South, uniting 124 Member and Signatory Countries.

This significant meeting of ministers occurs just a few weeks before COP30 in Brazil, setting the stage for priorities in expanding solar energy, facilitating transformative financing, outlining technology and policy strategies, and creating skill ecosystems to speed up a fair and inclusive energy transition.

He also mentioned that through the PM-KUSUM initiative, “we are bringing this change to the core of India.”

“The three elements of the plan aim to establish 10 gigawatts of small-scale solar facilities; assist 1.4 million off-grid solar irrigation pumps; and solarize 3.5 million agricultural pumps connected to the grid. Collectively, these initiatives are guaranteeing that clean energy reaches even the most remote areas. It is this blend of extensive reach and inclusivity that characterizes India’s shift towards sustainable energy,” the minister remarked.

Santosh Kumar Sarangi, Secretary of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, observed, “Currently, we rank third in solar power, fourth in wind power, and overall, we now hold the position of the third largest in renewable energy installations worldwide."

"Furthermore, in the production of solar modules, we rank second globally, following China. Our manufacturing capabilities go beyond solar modules and also include sectors such as green hydrogen, which is crucial for our energy security—and we are progressing toward our objective of producing approximately 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2031," he emphasized.

As stated by Ashish Khanna, the Director General of ISA, the world of renewable energy is currently at a critical turning point.

"It took oil 25 years to achieve 1,000 GW, while renewables accomplished that in only two years. For the first time, renewable energy production has outpaced that of fossil fuels. This is a pivotal moment for the Global South to take the lead," he continued.