Mumbai, Nov. 2 -- Rajasthan's installed renewable energy capacity has reached nearly 52 GW, including around 45 GW from solar power, Energy Minister Hiralal Nagar said at a distribution utility conference in Jaipur on October 27. The state added more than 28 GW in less than three years, highlighting the rapid expansion of its clean energy base. The increase has made renewable generation a central part of Rajasthan's electricity planning and infrastructure requirements.

Nagar said rooftop solar adoption had accelerated through PM Surya Ghar, with systems installed in 355,000 households. Under PM-KUSUM, decentralised solar projects exceeding 5,500 MW had been commissioned, supplying daytime electricity to more than 375,000 farmers. The schemes have expanded access to distributed generation beyond large utility-scale projects and supported the wider use of solar power across the state.

The minister said Rajasthan was also prioritising upgrades to its power distribution companies to improve operating efficiency and consumer services. The programme includes smart meters, artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, which are intended to strengthen monitoring, billing and service delivery across the distribution network. Modernisation is being pursued alongside the expansion of renewable generation and the resulting changes in electricity flows.

Jaipur Discom recorded a profit of Rs. 9.31 bn in FY26, according to Nagar. The figure was presented as the state continued expanding renewable generation while seeking to improve the financial performance of utilities responsible for delivering electricity to consumers. Distribution reforms remain an important part of managing the growing scale of the power system.

Chief Secretary V Srinivas said battery energy storage, grid modernisation and improved demand forecasting would be needed to manage rising consumption and integrate additional renewable power. These measures will support system stability as solar generation grows and electricity demand patterns become more complex.

Rajasthan is hosting the two-day Distribution Utility Meet for the first time. Distribution companies from across India are discussing financial reforms, smart grids, cybersecurity and emerging energy technologies at the conference, which is being held in Jaipur.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.