Hybrid power plans heat up in India
Combining wind and solar power at dual-use plants could ease land acquisition and variability issues—which would impact the country’s renewables market growth
India's renewable energy ministry published a national policy on 16 May that envisions a national grid of "hybrid" power plants integrating both solar and wind power, a concept that potentially addresses threats to renewables' dominance of the energy mix such as inconsistent output and land shortages. But geographical challenges and design complications suggest hybrid power may not be the silver bullet that it envisions. The country's renewable sector has made major strides in recent years, rising to 20.1% of the energy mix as of 31 March, from 12% five years earlier, according to the Central Electricity Authority. However, growth towards the government's goal of 175 gigawatts of installe
Also in this section
12 December 2025
The latest edition of our annual Outlook publication, titled 'The shape of energy to come: Creating unique pathways and managing shifting alliances', is available now
12 December 2025
The federal government is working with Alberta to improve the country’s access to Asian markets and reduce dependence on the US, but there are challenges to their plans
11 December 2025
The removal of the ban on oil and gas exploration and an overhaul of the system sends all the right messages for energy security, affordability and sustainability
10 December 2025
The economic and environmental cost of the seven-year exploration ban will be felt long after its removal
