A Comprehensive Study on Transition and Impact of Green Electricity in India

Fossil fuel-based power plants generate about 60% of global electricity and over 40% of carbon dioxide emissions. India mirrors this trend, with 56% of its electricity sourced from fossil fuels, making it the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases after China and the United States. In response to climate change, global warming, and resource depletion, India has committed to transitioning toward renewable energy. At COP26 in Glasgow, under the “Panch Amrit” framework, India pledged to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity and meet 50% of its energy needs from renewables by 2030—building on earlier COP21 commitments, including a 40% non-fossil energy target, which was surpassed by 2022. This study evaluates the current adoption of green electricity sources in India—solar, wind, hydroelectric, and biomass—and assesses projected capacities through 2030. It investigates opportunities and challenges in achieving India’s 2030 renewable targets and its long-term goal of net-zero emissions by 2070. Using secondary data from the Ministry of Power and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (2013–2023), the research applies qualitative and quantitative analyses, including trend assessments with Excel and SPSS. The findings highlight positive momentum, supported by progressive policies and declining renewable energy costs. However, challenges such as renewable energy intermittency, grid flexibility, and the need for large-scale energy storage remain significant. Despite these hurdles, the study concludes that India’s decarbonization targets are realistic, provided there is sustained policy support, infrastructure development, and technological innovation. Overall, the research offers key insights into India’s energy transition aligned with global climate objectives.