Adopted in January 2016, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim for completion by December 2030. SDG 7 focuses on providing affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all by 2030. At the halfway mark in June 2023, this study assesses the progress toward SDG 7 and the role of renewable energy in India. The study evaluates progress on five targets under SDG 7 by analyzing reports from Indian ministries, particularly the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and publications from international institutions and global consulting firms. It uses quantitative assessments for targets 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3 to measure progress and renewable energy's role. For targets 7.a and 7.b, it qualitatively reviews India's international partnerships, agreements and initiatives to support clean energy research, technology, infrastructure expansion and clean energy supply, particularly in remote areas like islands. The study found that India achieved universal energy access in 2021, with lower renewable energy tariffs, biogas in rural areas and clean power generation in remote areas playing key roles. By June 2023, renewable energy's share in India's energy mix rose to 41.83%, driven by ambitious targets, Government financial assistance and growing renewable purchase obligations (RPOs). India improved its energy efficiency by an average of 2.0% per annum from 2015–16 to 2022–23, with renewable energy limiting transmission losses through distributed generation and hybrid RE plants integrated with energy storage. India promoted the International Solar Alliance and signed agreements with several countries and international institutions. India is also expanding its Green Corridor for renewable power transmission and building solar plants under the ‘Greening of Islands’ scheme. The results provide valuable insights to all stakeholders engaged in providing clean and sustainable energy. It also provides policy recommendations to accelerate the achievement and attainment of SDG ‘Affordable and Clean Energy’ in India.