Solar Power Milestone: Industry Experts React to PM Modi’s Independence Day Address on India’s Renewable Energy Growth

Industry Commentary by Radhika Choudary, Co-Founder and Director, Freyr Energy

 “From 2 GW to 164.59 GW of solar capacity is not incremental progress, it’s a structural transformation of India’s energy identity. But as we look toward the 500 GW target by 2030, the real opportunity lies beyond utility-scale capacity additions. India’s next chapter of energy independence will be written at the rooftop and household level, where every home that adopts solar isn’t just consuming clean power, it’s actively participating in the nation’s energy security.

As demand for energy rises with economic growth, distributed solar can ease pressure on grids, reduce transmission losses, and put control directly in the hands of consumers. The centre of gravity in India’s power sector is shifting – from centralized generation to distributed, from dependence to ownership. The next 5-10 years won’t just be about how much capacity we add nationally, but how many Indian households can say they generate their own power. That’s when energy independence becomes personal, not just a policy target.”