India's solar energy boom accelerates with record projects and rooftop innovations
India's solar energy sector has seen a surge in activity this year. Several major projects have been commissioned, while new contracts and initiatives aim to expand renewable power capacity across the country. From large-scale solar farms to rooftop installations, the push for cleaner energy is gaining momentum.
In Assam, SJVN Green Energy launched the state's first utility-scale solar project—a 70 MW temp in Dhubri district. This marks a key step in expanding solar infrastructure in the northeastern region.
Meanwhile, NTPC Green Energy activated 300 MW of its 500 MW Bhadla solar project in Rajasthan. The remaining capacity is expected to follow soon, reinforcing Rajasthan's position as a leader in solar energy.
In Chhattisgarh, Raipur became home to India's first virtual net metering rooftop solar project under the PM Surya Ghar programme. The initiative allows households to benefit from solar power without installing panels on their own roofs.
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation awarded APM Projects a contract to install 5 MW of rooftop solar systems across 15 elevated stations. The 60 kW systems at each station are projected to save ₹630,000 annually for 20 households, cutting energy costs significantly.
On the manufacturing front, Alpex Solar secured an order worth ₹2.15 billion (~$25.9 million) for solar module supplies. The deal highlights growing demand for domestic solar components.
Transmission upgrades are also underway. PFC Consulting and REC Power Development both invited bids for interstate transmission systems—one in Andhra Pradesh and another to evacuate 2.8 GW of renewable energy in Rajasthan.
Corporate adoption of renewables is rising too. CEAT will source power from 59 MW of wind-solar hybrid projects under the group captive model, reducing reliance on conventional energy.
Nationwide, India added a record 7.8 GW of solar open access capacity in 2025. Karnataka led with 24% of installations, followed by Maharashtra (20%) and Rajasthan (18%). Gujarat and Tamil Nadu also saw strong growth in the final quarter.
These developments reflect India's accelerating shift toward renewable energy. With new solar farms, rooftop projects, and transmission upgrades, the country is building infrastructure to support its clean energy goals. The expansion of both large-scale and decentralised solar systems points to a diversified approach in meeting rising power demands.
