Our Solar Capacity has Risen 17 Times in 7 yrs: India at COP26

At the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow, India delivered a powerful message on sustainable development and solar leadership. Representing 17% of the global population, India emphasized that its cumulative carbon emissions account for only 4% of the world’s total—highlighting its commitment to low-carbon growth.

During the 11th Facilitative Sharing of Views (FSV), India presented its Third Biennial Update Report (BUR), noting a 17-fold increase in installed solar energy capacity over the past seven years. The country’s total solar capacity has now crossed 45 gigawatts, positioning India as one of the world’s fastest-growing solar energy markets.

India also reported a 24% reduction in emissions intensity of its GDP between 2005 and 2014, showcasing how economic development is being increasingly decoupled from greenhouse gas emissions. Speaking at the summit, J.R. Bhatt, Adviser at the Ministry of Environment, noted, “India is especially vulnerable to climate change, yet we are advancing economy-wide mitigation strategies through renewable energy adoption and sustainable development.”

The presentation also highlighted key initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), aimed at fostering global collaboration on clean technologies and climate resilience. When questioned about forest conservation, India emphasized the importance of community participation in expanding green cover. Between 2015 and 2019, forest and tree cover increased by 13,031 sq. km, while mangrove cover rose by 235 sq. km.

India further stressed its use of LULUCF (Land Use, Land-Use Change, and Forestry) as a carbon sink, removing 15% of its carbon dioxide emissions in 2016 alone. In addition, the nation reported significant growth in biodiversity, citing rising populations of Asiatic lions, elephants, and rhinoceroses.

With a strong push toward clean energy, India’s renewable energy journey—especially in rooftop solar systems, utility-scale solar farms, and off-grid solar solutions—was recognized by global stakeholders. The country reiterated its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions while continuing to expand access to affordable and sustainable solar power.