India's Renewable Power Hits Record High as Coal Share Falls to One-Year Low

Post by : Saif

India recorded its highest-ever renewable electricity generation in July, pushing clean energy's share of the national power mix to 20% and reducing coal's contribution to its lowest level in a year.

Government data showed renewable generation reached 36.25 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) during the month, representing a 30% increase compared with July last year.

Coal's Share Declines Despite Higher Demand

As renewable energy production increased, coal's share in India's electricity generation fell to 65.7% in July, down from 69% in June.

The growing contribution from solar and wind energy helped reduce dependence on coal during daytime hours when electricity demand is increasingly being met by renewable sources.

Solar and Wind Set New Records

India's renewable energy sector achieved another milestone during July as combined solar and wind power output exceeded 100 gigawatts for the first time.

Government data also showed that on July 13, solar and wind together supplied a record 42.8% of the country's electricity, highlighting the rapid expansion of clean energy infrastructure.

Hydropower Declines Amid El Niño Conditions

Despite the strong renewable performance, hydropower generation declined for a second consecutive month due to lower rainfall associated with El Niño weather conditions.

Reduced hydroelectric output has increased reliance on coal-fired generation during nighttime hours when solar power is unavailable and electricity demand remains elevated because of higher temperatures.

Coal Still Plays a Key Role

Although coal's percentage share declined, coal-fired electricity generation still increased compared with last year, reflecting India's growing overall electricity demand.

Energy analysts say continued expansion of renewable capacity is helping diversify India's power mix, but coal is expected to remain an important source of electricity until storage capacity and grid infrastructure continue to expand.

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