The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) released a comprehensive assessment report estimating India's floating solar PV potential at over 102 GWp, which increases the country's total assessed solar potential to 3,445 GWp. Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi announced that the Ministry is developing a dedicated scheme to promote floating solar deployment across the country, recognizing reservoirs and water bodies as important assets for clean energy generation.
Concurrently, the Minister launched an Online Portal for the Small Hydro Power Development Scheme, marking the first major policy intervention in the small hydro sector since 2017. This portal is designed to enhance transparency and efficiency in the implementation of small hydro projects.
In a significant collaboration, the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) and Military Engineering Services exchanged an MoU to strengthen solar energy adoption across defence establishments. Under this agreement, NISE will provide technical support for planning, implementation, and monitoring of renewable energy projects within defence infrastructure.
The Minister highlighted India's remarkable progress in renewable energy, with non-fossil fuel capacity increasing from 81 GW in 2014 to 288 GW currently, and solar capacity growing from 2.8 GW to 155 GW over the same period. Domestic solar manufacturing capacity has also expanded significantly, reaching 172 GW for module manufacturing and 30 GW for cell manufacturing capacity.
Flagship programs including PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana and PM-KUSUM were noted for expanding citizen participation in India's clean energy transition. The Minister also released the book "Green Energy and Sustainable Development" by Dr. Mohammad Rihan, which is expected to serve as a resource for students, researchers, and policymakers.