UP tops India in rooftop solar installations, crosses 5 lakh mark with record capacity growth
Indiatimes May 03, 2026 05:40 PM
Uttar Pradesh has recorded a significant milestone in the renewable energy sector, crossing 5 lakh rooftop solar installations and emerging as the leading state in the country in this segment. The development has taken place during the tenure of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, according to official data released on May 2. Officials stated that more than 500,000 rooftop solar plants have been installed across the state, with total installed capacity reaching approximately 1,696.68 megawatts. The programme has received a large number of applications, with a substantial portion already approved and implemented.
The initiative has been supported by financial assistance from both central and state governments. Authorities indicated that subsidies amounting to over ₹3,000 crore from the central government and more than ₹1,000 crore from the state have been disbursed to promote solar adoption among households and institutions. According to Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency, the expansion of rooftop solar infrastructure has contributed to daily electricity generation valued at several crores, while also reducing carbon emissions significantly. Officials added that the programme has created direct employment for over 65,000 individuals through around 5,000 companies, with additional indirect job opportunities linked to the sector.
The state also recorded a rapid pace of installations in April 2026, when over 51,000 rooftop solar systems were set up within a single month. This translated into an average of more than 1,700 installations per day, marking one of the fastest implementation rates reported so far. Officials noted that the adoption of rooftop solar systems has also reduced the need for large-scale land use, with thousands of acres preserved for agriculture and other purposes. The expansion is part of broader efforts to increase renewable energy capacity and reduce dependence on conventional power sources. The latest figures highlight the growing role of rooftop solar in India’s energy transition, with Uttar Pradesh currently leading in terms of installations and implementation pace.
