PM-SSY Approves ₹5,070 Cr for 5,000 MW Floating Solar, Targets 102 GW Potential

Karnataka Targets 66 GW Power Capacity by 2030; Clean Energy, Pumped Storage, Solar Park Expansion

Karnataka has unveiled a 10-year roadmap to scale its installed power capacity from 39 GW to 66 GW by 2030, with a strong focus on clean energy. The plan includes pumped storage, battery storage, solar park expansion, and significant private investment. This is crucial for students as it links to India's renewable energy targets, energy security, and state-specific schemes like PM-KUSUM.

EAC Recommends Green Nod for 1,605 MW Subansiri Upper Project; 1.35 Lakh Trees at Risk

The EAC's recommendation for environmental clearance to the 1,605 MW Subansiri Upper Hydro Project highlights the tension between hydropower development and forest conservation. Key issues include diversion of 2,733 hectares of forest land, felling of 1.35 lakh trees, and compensatory afforestation in MP. This is crucial for UPSC Mains GS3 (Environment, Infrastructure) and Prelims (Forest Conservation Act, EAC).

131 GW Canal-Top Solar Potential: MNRE Pilot Scheme, PM Surya Sarovar Yojana Boost Land-Free Renewable Energy

India's vast canal network offers a land-free path to solar power via Canal-Top Photovoltaics (CTPV). With land acquisition for solar projects becoming expensive, CTPV saves land, reduces water evaporation, and improves panel efficiency. A 2024 assessment estimates 131 GW potential, but high costs and structural challenges limit deployment. The PM Surya Sarovar Yojana (floating solar) signals growing policy interest in land-neutral solar.

India Crosses 300 GW Non-Fossil Capacity, Targets 500 GW by 2030; Solar Leads at 164.59 GW

India has crossed 300 GW non-fossil fuel capacity (300.50 GW as of July 31, 2026), accounting for over 54% of total installed capacity. Solar power leads at 164.59 GW. The country is on track for 500 GW by 2030. Key schemes like PM Surya Ghar have benefited 19 lakh households with zero electricity bills. This milestone is crucial for exams on energy transition, climate policy, and government schemes.

Private Players Seek Green Energy Status for Nuclear Power; 100 GWe, $228 Bn Target by 2047

Private players are pushing for nuclear power to be classified as 'green energy' to unlock green bonds, green loans, and blended finance. NITI Aayog is reviewing existing green finance frameworks (MoF, RBI, SEBI) to include nuclear energy. India targets 100 GWe nuclear capacity by 2047, requiring $228 billion investment.

Bihar Targets 24 GW Renewable Energy by 2030 with ₹1.38 Lakh Crore Solar Investment Plan

Bihar, facing severe energy deficits and high power purchase costs, has announced a ₹1.38 lakh crore investment plan to achieve 24 GW renewable energy capacity and 6 GWh energy storage by 2030. The plan aims to meet projected peak demand of 11,747 MW and includes a Green Energy Corridor and large-scale solar parks.

Karnataka Approves 4,500 Electric Buses for Bengaluru Under PM E-DRIVE Scheme, ₹2,000 Cr Loan

Karnataka's decision to procure 4,500 electric buses under PM E-DRIVE scheme and take a ₹2,000 crore loan for bus depots is a major state-level infrastructure push. The initiative highlights the central government's electric mobility drive and state-level implementation. Key for exams: PM E-DRIVE scheme, BMTC, free Shakti smart cards for women, and fare revision committee.

Indian Railways Achieves 99.6% Electrification, Targets Net-Zero Carbon by 2030

Indian Railways has achieved 99.6% broad gauge electrification as of March 2026, positioning itself to meet the net-zero carbon target by 2030. This transition involves renewable energy integration, green hydrogen trains, and structural financing reforms, impacting India's climate commitments and energy security.