India’s Solar Electricity Generation Jumps Nearly 22% in 2025 Compared to 2024

New Delhi — India saw a significant rise in solar power generation in 2025, with the country producing about 164.5 billion units (BU) of solar electricity, up nearly 22 per cent from 133.7 BU in the previous year, according to figures released by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA). This increase was largely driven by the commissioning of many solar projects that had been delayed in earlier years but were completed last year, boosting overall clean energy output.

The strong growth in solar output was particularly noticeable in the fourth quarter of 2025 (Q4), when generation reached 41.2 BU, an 8 per cent rise from the previous quarter and a 20.4 per cent rise compared with the same period in 2024. The acceleration in project completions followed regulatory clarity that allowed construction to resume after earlier environmental restrictions, as well as developers racing to secure transmission cost benefits before a key policy deadline in mid-2025.

Regionally, the northern parts of India produced the most solar energy in Q4 2025, contributing about 15.6 BU of generation. The southern and western regions also recorded strong performance, with 13.2 BU and 11.7 BU, respectively. States such as Rajasthan, Gujarat and Karnataka remained among the top solar-producing areas, though output in Rajasthan saw a slight quarterly drop while Gujarat and Karnataka posted increases.

The increase in generation came amid broader growth in India’s renewable energy capacity. By the end of 2025, the combined renewable energy portfolio — including large hydroelectric projects — reached 258.3 GW, surpassing half of the nation’s total installed power capacity. The rise in solar electricity generation highlights progress in India’s clean energy transition and reflects renewed momentum in commissioning projects held back by earlier regulatory and transmission challenges.