May 22: India’s solar open access segment recorded strong growth in the first quarter of 2026, with 2.7 GW of new capacity added, marking a sharp 160% rise compared to 1 GW in the same period last year. The surge reflects accelerating clean energy adoption driven by supportive policies and rising corporate demand for renewable power.
India adds 2.7 GW solar open access capacity in Q1 2026, up 160%: Mercomhttps://t.co/eEVkNCIgLK
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— PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 22, 2026
Industry observers noted that developers fast-tracked installations ahead of regulatory changes related to the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM), amid concerns over possible supply constraints. Faster project approvals and favorable state-level policies also contributed to the momentum.
On a sequential basis, additions rose 55% from 1.7 GW in Q4 2025, making it one of the strongest quarterly performances in recent times.
With this expansion, India’s cumulative solar open access capacity reached 32.9 GW as of March 2026, highlighting steady progress in the country’s transition toward cleaner energy sources.
Among states, Rajasthan led fresh installations during the quarter, accounting for nearly 39% of new capacity, while Karnataka continues to hold the largest share of total installed capacity at 23%, followed by Maharashtra and Rajasthan at 16% each.