India's solar capacity rose to 251% with 4,578 MW installations in 1H

According to a report, in the second quarter (Q2) of 2021, India added 2,488 MW solar capacity increasing 10% quarter-on-quarter (QoQ), as compared to 2,090 installations in Q1 2021. Solar capacity installations grew by 1,114% year-on-year (YoY), as compared to 205 MW installations in Q2 2020, which was affected due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The capacity installations were highest in Q2 2021 since Q2 2018. As per the report, the cumulative solar capacity installations in Q2 2021 reached 43.6 GW. During the first half (QH) of 2021, India's solar capacity installations were 4,578 MW, which was 251% higher than the same period last year. The report suggests that the installations were higher despite the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic and state lockdown in 1H. The solar growth was attributed to the targeted state lockdowns in 2021 to help the solar sector deal better with emergencies. The average selling price of the solar modules have increased for the fifth quarter, and it will continue for the next couple of quarters, the report said. The large-scale solar pipeline development reached 52.8 GW, with 28 GW solar projects yet to be tendered and auctioned by the end of Q2 2021. Gujarat and Rajasthan were among the top two states to install solar power, followed by Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh. The top states to install solar capacity hold 95% of the total installations during the quarter. The report also says that the capacity installations in 1H 2021 were the highest at 53% of the total power capacity installation. Renewable energy included solar power, wind power, and hydropower, making 71% of the overall capacity additions in 1H 2021. Image Source Also read: India adds 2,488 MW solar capacity in Q2, rising 19% QoQ over Q1