India recorded its strongest first-half solar capacity addition in 2026, installing 27 GW of solar power during the first six months of the year, according to Mercom India Research.
The addition represents a 49% year-on-year increase compared with the 18 GW installed during the same period in 2025, highlighting the continued acceleration of solar deployment across the country.
India added nearly 12 GW of solar capacity during Q2 2026 alone, making it the second-highest quarterly solar addition on record. The strong quarterly performance contributed significantly to the record first-half figures.
The growth reflects the continued expansion of India’s solar sector, supported by large-scale projects and increasing investment in renewable energy. The latest figures indicate that India remains on a strong trajectory toward expanding its renewable energy capacity.
However, the growth of emerging segments such as floating solar will require more than financial subsidies. Greater policy support, suitable project frameworks, infrastructure development and investment will be important for unlocking the potential of floating solar projects.
Overall, the first-half performance demonstrates the rapid expansion of India’s solar market in 2026 and reinforces the country’s broader push toward a cleaner and more renewable-based power system.
