Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Apr 20: According to the latest data from the ministry of statistics and programme implementation, Karnataka continues to solidify its position in the energy sector, leading the nation in small hydropower production with a capacity of 3.63 GW.
The 'Energy Statistics India 2026' report, released by the National Statistical Office (NSO) on March 30, reveals that India’s total renewable energy potential reached 4,704,043 MW as of March 31, 2025. Karnataka remains a top performer, particularly in small hydropower projects, securing the top spot with 3,726 MW in the 2024-25 fiscal year.
The report highlights a significant national shift toward green energy. Solar energy capacity, which stood at 3,343,378 MW in 2023-24, rose to 748,990 MW in the 2024-25 fiscal. Wind energy contributed 1,163,856 MW, while large hydroelectric projects accounted for a 70% share of the renewable basket at 1,33,410 MW.
More than 70% of India’s total renewable energy capacity is concentrated in six states. Rajasthan leads the pack with 23.70%, followed by Maharashtra (14.26%), Gujarat (9.10%), Andhra Pradesh (9.1%), Karnataka (8.59%), and Madhya Pradesh (8.09%).
The ministry noted that in specific categories, Karnataka's performance is noteworthy. In small hydropower, Karnataka leads the nation with 3.63 GW. In wind power, the state ranks fourth in the country with 169,251 MW, following Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. With 4,414 MW in large hydropower, Karnataka holds the sixth position, while Arunachal Pradesh leads this segment with 50,394 MW. Karnataka also ranks seventh nationally in biomass power with an output of 1,794 MW and ninth in solar power with a capacity of 24,700 MW.
Energy department officials stated that they are currently verifying the latest data. They highlighted that Karnataka remains a frontrunner in solar energy with 9,900 MW produced in 2026 alone. Efforts are being intensified to further boost this through central schemes such as PM Surya Ghar and KUSUM-B & C. Officials also emphasised that Karnataka continues to lead the way in establishing a robust electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem.