Coal Power Decline: India's Clean Energy Surge Paves the Way for Emission Peak by 2030

A new analysis from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air predicts that India could peak its coal power emissions before 2030 by reaching its 500 GW non-fossil power capacity goal. This reflects significant growth in clean electricity, backed by government policies fostering a burgeoning solar industry.

India is on track to peak its coal power emissions before 2030 if it achieves a target of 500 gigawatts (GW) of non-fossil power capacity, according to a report from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) released on Tuesday.

The analysis highlights that India, together with China and Indonesia, which hold substantial coal consumption markets, could see a peak in power sector emissions within the decade if they maintain momentum in clean energy advancements.

India's non-fossil capacity has grown significantly, adding a record 29 GW in 2024 and an additional 25 GW in the first half of 2025. The country's policy framework is underpinning this growth through competitive renewable energy auctions, turning India into a rapidly growing solar hub.