In a historic shift, renewable energy generation has exceeded coal-based power for the first time during the initial six months of this calendar year, as announced by Ashish Khanna, Director General of the International Solar Alliance (ISA). Khanna shared this milestone at the 8th ISA Assembly held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, highlighting the accelerating pace of solar energy adoption worldwide.

Khanna emphasized the remarkable growth of solar capacity, noting that while it took 25 years to achieve the first 1000 gigawatts, the next 1000 gigawatts were added in just two years. He projected that global solar capacity could double again within four years, reaching an impressive 4600 gigawatts.

The ISA Director General pointed out that 71% of new solar installations are concentrated in the Asia Pacific region, with Latin America emerging as the next significant growth area. He also highlighted Africa’s vast untapped potential, describing it as the continent with the best solar radiation yet to be fully utilized.

To support this expansion, the ISA is enhancing private-sector investment through initiatives like the Global Solar Facility, set to launch in Africa before expanding to the Asia Pacific. The alliance is also prioritizing capacity building to help countries develop localized solutions and mitigate investment risks.

Khanna announced the upcoming Africa Solar Facility launch next year and a new program on regional interconnection to reduce reliance on battery storage. Additionally, the ISA is developing a technology roadmap and policy to guide member countries in leveraging solar and emerging technologies effectively.

Focus areas include waste management and recycling as part of a critical mineral strategy, with efforts to harmonize standards across 125 member countries using India’s expertise and IEC frameworks. Khanna also revealed plans for an ISA Academy and Global Capability Centre to provide digital learning solutions, ensuring access to solar information for all income levels.

Finally, the ISA will release flagship reports on global solar trends, solar compass, ease of doing solar, and floating solar, further supporting the global transition to renewable energy.