India Hits Record Renewable Share as Coal Production Rises

India's renewable energy generation reached a record 20% of the country's power mix in July 2026, totaling 36.25 billion kilowatt-hours. This represents a 30% increase over the previous July, while the share of coal-fired power dropped to a one-year low of 65.7%. On July 13, solar and wind output exceeded 100 gigawatts for the first time, providing 42.8% of the electricity supply.

Despite the rise in renewables, absolute coal-fired generation increased 12.8% year-on-year to 119.40 billion kilowatt-hours. This growth was driven by extreme heat and a strong El Niño pattern, which lowered hydropower generation to 22.1% and spiked nighttime cooling demand. Total electricity generation for July rose 10.4% year-on-year to 181.79 billion kilowatt-hours.

Coal India Limited drove this increased demand by recording its highest-ever coal supply for the month of July in any financial year, with offtake rising 18.38% to 64.19 million tonnes. National coal production for July grew by 7.51% to 69.75 million tonnes. The Ministry of Coal Industry stated these increases are part of a broader strategy to ensure stable energy supplies and reduce reliance on imports. For the April-July period of FY27, cumulative national production reached 302.24 million tonnes.