India has officially overtaken Japan to become the world’s third-largest producer of solar energy, according to Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi. Citing data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Joshi announced that India generated 1,08,494 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of solar power, surpassing Japan’s 96,459 GWh.

IRENA, an intergovernmental agency that supports countries in their energy transition, tracks and analyzes global renewable energy developments. The agency’s latest data highlights India’s rapid growth in the solar sector, reflecting its significant strides toward clean energy.

Joshi credited the country’s success to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a post on social media platform X, he wrote, “Thanks to the visionary leadership of PM @narendramodi ji, India is leading the way in the global clean energy revolution.”

This achievement comes as India aggressively pursues its renewable energy goals. The country is working toward installing 500 gigawatts (GW) of non-fossil fuel electricity capacity by 2030, under a multi-pronged clean energy strategy that includes solar, wind, hydro, and nuclear power.

India’s rise in the global solar ranking underscores its role as a key player in the energy transition movement, reinforcing its commitment to combat climate change and promote sustainability.