Despite abundant sunshine and bold green energy ambitions, Goa remains far behind in solar power generation, producing just 0.058 GW (58 MW) as of June 2025. However, a draft report by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) outlines a dramatic opportunity for change—identifying over 10 GW of untapped renewable potential. Of this, approximately 9.07 GW could come from ground-mounted solar installations across 65 sq km of identified wasteland. Additional potential includes 0.14 GW from rooftop solar and 0.39 GW from floating solar arrays on water bodies.
Currently, Goa’s power demand stands at 663.3 MW, with thermal energy supplying the bulk at 559.9 MW. Renewables contribute 61.6 MW, and nuclear energy accounts for 41.6 MW. Rooftop solar, driven by schemes like the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, is gaining momentum—53 MW has already been installed, accounting for more than 90% of the state’s solar capacity. The program has prompted 400–500 successful installations so far, with nearly 5,000 applications pending.
The state is now exploring large-scale expansion options, including a proposal to Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) for a 336 MW canal-top solar plant. However, plans to utilize reservoirs at Selaulim, Amthanem, Anjunem, and Chapoli for floating solar remain uncertain due to technical and feasibility challenges.
To accelerate adoption, the government aims to achieve 50% household rooftop coverage within a year. It has also launched initiatives like the Model Solar Village competition across 63 villages to encourage decentralized renewable energy adoption. While current output remains modest, Goa's strategic initiatives and infrastructural push could position it as a future leader in clean energy—substantially cutting fossil fuel reliance and aligning with India's national sustainability goals.