India Hits 56 GW Wind Power Capacity, Marks Major Renewable Energy Milestone: PM Narendra Modi
Rapid growth in wind sector highlights India’s progress toward sustainable energy goals and net-zero ambitions
NEW DELHI, Apr 26: India has crossed a significant threshold in its renewable energy journey, with total wind power capacity surpassing 56 gigawatts, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Sunday. The achievement reflects steady expansion in clean energy infrastructure and reinforces the country’s position as a global leader in the sector.
Speaking during his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister emphasised that renewable energy adoption is not only an environmental necessity but also a strategic priority for long-term national development. He noted that nearly 6 gigawatts of wind energy capacity was added over the past year, demonstrating sustained momentum in the sector.
Highlighting the broader significance of the milestone, Modi urged citizens to actively contribute to energy conservation and embrace cleaner alternatives. He underscored that solar and wind energy together form the backbone of India’s transition toward a more sustainable and secure energy future.
Earlier, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi described 2025-26 as a record-breaking year for wind energy expansion. He confirmed that the country added a historic 6.1 gigawatts during the period, marking the highest annual growth in the sector so far.
India currently holds the fourth position globally in wind energy capacity, with over 56.1 gigawatts installed and approximately 28 gigawatts under various stages of development. Officials believe this upward trajectory will continue, driven by policy support, technological advancements, and increasing investment in renewable infrastructure.
Joshi also pointed to the vast untapped potential of wind resources across the country. According to government estimates, India’s wind energy potential at a hub height of 150 metres stands at around 1,164 gigawatts, offering substantial scope for future expansion.
Looking ahead, the government has set ambitious targets to scale up capacity to 100 gigawatts by 2030 and further to 156 gigawatts by 2036. These milestones are expected to play a crucial role in achieving India’s broader commitment of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
Apart from capacity growth, wind energy is increasingly being recognised for its operational advantages within the power system. Unlike solar power, wind generation often peaks during evening and night hours, aligning closely with periods of high electricity demand. Nearly 45 per cent of wind power output occurs during these peak times, making it an essential complement to solar energy.
As India accelerates its clean energy transition, the latest wind energy milestone signals both progress and potential, reinforcing the country’s commitment to sustainable development and energy security.
