India’s Renewable Energy Summit Highlights Solar Power and Investment Opportunities

New Delhi, November 2 (Daily Kiran) : The Renewable Energy Summit and Expo in New Delhi has sparked vital discussions about the expansion of clean and alternative energy in India. Key figures, including Delhi’s Minister Ashish Sood, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ Lieutenant Governor Dinesh Sharma, and Uttar Pradesh Minister A.K. Sharma, participated in the event, stressing the need for increased production and use of renewable energy.

Minister Ashish Sood highlighted the growing demand for electricity in Delhi, predicting it could reach 9,000 megawatts this year. By 2034-35, this demand may rise to 11,500 megawatts, underscoring the importance of solar energy. The Delhi government plans to distribute free solar panels to approximately 220,000 homes under its new solar policy.

Sood emphasized that the government is not only focusing on installing solar panels on rooftops but is also facilitating the installation of panels on agricultural land. He introduced the concept of agri-voltaics, which allows for solar panels to be placed on farming land while still enabling agricultural activities underneath. This initiative is a forward-thinking approach to meet future energy needs.

Lieutenant Governor Dinesh Sharma praised the summit as a significant effort in the alternative energy sector. He noted the participation of major industrial groups and experts from around the world to discuss the expansion of energy and solar systems. Prime Minister Modi‘s address was a key highlight of the event, inspiring discussions on how to maximize the use of alternative and renewable energy sources across states.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi described the Prime Minister‘s speech as motivational, setting new goals for the country and providing a roadmap for achievement. The summit attracted representatives and investors from numerous countries, with participation from over four chief ministers, two deputy chief ministers, and more than 15 state ministers. Officials from various renewable energy departments were also present, representing over 30 countries.

Joshi mentioned that this large-scale event combined three separate gatherings, resulting in heightened interest among investors both domestically and internationally. While it’s too early to provide specific investment figures, he expressed optimism about the potential for future investments, noting that over 6 lakh crore rupees have been invested in the sector over the past two years.

Minister A.K. Sharma congratulated the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy for organizing the summit, stating that India has emerged as a leader in renewable energy, now ranking third globally. The country’s total production has surpassed 100 gigawatts, yet significant opportunities remain.

Sharma pointed out that in a country as vast as India, there is immense potential for solar installations on both rooftops and government buildings, as well as on the ground. Uttar Pradesh is leading the nation in the solar rooftop program and has made significant strides in the biogas sector as well.