Karnataka has unveiled a strategic 10-year roadmap to expand its installed power capacity from 39 GW to 66 GW by 2030, with a heavy emphasis on clean energy sources.

  • Targeting an increase from 39 GW to 66 GW by 2030.
  • Focus on clean energy: Solar, Wind, and Hydro.
  • Expected private investment of ₹2–3 lakh crore.
  • Addressing rising demand from Data Centers and EVs.

Bengaluru: In a decisive move toward energy self-reliance and sustainability, Karnataka has announced a massive expansion plan for its power sector. Gaurav Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy Department, unveiled a 10-year roadmap at the 'Bharat Electricity and Indian Utility Week, 2026' in New Delhi, aiming to scale the state's installed capacity to 66 GW by 2030.

The state is currently operating at over 39 GW of installed capacity, with a significant two-thirds of its energy mix already derived from clean hydro and renewable sources. This expansion comes at a critical time as electricity demand has surged from 210 MU in August 2025 to between 310 MU and 350 MU recently.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that Karnataka's aggressive transition is a direct response to the structural shifts in the regional economy. The rapid proliferation of large-scale data centers in Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Mangaluru, coupled with the massive adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), necessitates a robust and green-focused grid to prevent energy shortages.

Karnataka is preparing its power sector to meet rapidly rising electricity demand while strengthening grid infrastructure and energy storage.

To support this growth, the state is investing heavily in grid resilience. Key projects include the 2,000 MW Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project and the deployment of large-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) at critical KPTCL substations. Furthermore, the expansion of the Pavagada Solar Park and the solarisation of agricultural feeders via the CM-SKY scheme are central to this green mission.

From an investment perspective, Karnataka is positioning itself as a highly stable destination. The state expects to attract between ₹2–3 lakh crore in private investment over the next few years. Officials have emphasized that there will be no curtailment of transmission and no delays in payments to generators, ensuring a predictable environment for global investors.

Historical Background

Karnataka has long been a pioneer in India's renewable energy landscape. By integrating traditional hydro power with modern solar and wind technologies, the state has consistently maintained one of the most diverse and clean energy portfolios in the country.

Did You Know?: Karnataka's transmission utility, KPTCL, operates with ultra-low transmission losses of under 3%, setting a benchmark for efficiency in India.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is driving the increased power demand in Karnataka?
The demand is driven by industrial expansion, the rise of large data centers, and the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

2. How much private investment is expected in the sector?
The state expects to attract approximately ₹2–3 lakh crore in private investment over the next 4-5 years.