Over the period from December 2024 to November 2025, India's electricity consumption has been significantly dependent on fossil fuels, with more than 72% coming from these sources, primarily dominated by coal at 69%. Low-carbon energy sources account for around 28% of electricity consumption, of which hydropower leads with nearly 9%, followed by solar and wind at slightly over 8% and 6% respectively. Gas contributes about 3%, while nuclear energy and biofuels each sit just above 2%. This mix reflects a heavily fossil-reliant system with a cleaner energy composition that still needs expansion to make a substantial impact.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in India?
Despite India's progressive efforts towards clean energy, the total electricity consumption per capita has seen a slight reduction, falling from nearly 1351 kWh/person in 2024 to around 1349 kWh/person in 2025. However, there is a silver lining, as low-carbon electricity generation has shown a remarkable rise, climbing by 51 kWh/person to reach 373 kWh/person. This growth in clean energy indicates a promising shift in India's energy landscape, yet the overall electrification showed stagnation, emphasizing the need for strategic advancements to boost total electricity supply, crucial for economic growth and sustainability.
Suggestions
India can look to regions with successful low-carbon energy usage to guide enhancement of its clean electricity generation. For instance, countries like France and Slovakia rely heavily on nuclear power, generating 70% and 66% of their electricity from this source, respectively. States such as Nevada, California, and regions like Lebanon, which are increasing solar generation at around 30%, also provide valuable blueprints. Incorporating more nuclear and solar power can significantly bolster India's clean energy share, providing reliable and sustainable electricity while reducing reliance on polluting fossil fuels. This strategic expansion aligns with global trends and environmental necessities, crucial for India's future energy security.
History
Historically, India has witnessed fluctuations in its low-carbon electricity generation. In the early 2000s, hydropower experienced periodic growth, with notable increases in the mid-2000s and 2010s. However, this was occasionally offset by declines, such as the significant drop in hydroelectric production in 2012 and again in 2023. Meanwhile, solar energy has seen consistent growth since 2018, underscoring its potential as a cornerstone of future development. Wind power also made a robust gain in 2025. This history reflects the necessity for stable policy and investments to sustain and expand clean energy generation. By tapping into lessons from other regions and capitalizing on solar and nuclear energy’s potential, India can pave the way toward a greener, more sustainable electricity future.
