Bhubaneswar: Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, inaugurated the “Chintan Shivir” in Bhubaneswar today, a two-day event organized by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) to chart a course toward achieving India’s ambitious goal of 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030. Bringing together government leaders, industry experts, and stakeholders, the event aims to foster collaboration and address critical challenges in the renewable energy sector.
In his inaugural address, Minister Joshi emphasized that the 500 GW target is a “clarion call for action,” highlighting India’s substantial progress in renewable energy. “India has already achieved 212 GW from non-fossil fuel sources, showing that we are well-positioned to surpass our 2030 goals,” he stated. The Minister called for unified, determined efforts from all sectors to resolve obstacles and drive forward the renewable energy agenda.
Key issues raised during the Shivir included challenges in land acquisition, transmission infrastructure, power purchase agreements, and energy storage. “The Chintan Shivir should arrive at comprehensive solutions to these issues, creating a roadmap that incorporates the wisdom and experience of all participants to achieve the 500 GW target,” Minister Joshi urged.
Joshi also noted India’s growing status as a global leader in renewable energy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, highlighting initiatives such as PM Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana and PM KUSUM, which are both bolstering energy goals and creating employment. He proposed the creation of a specialized task force, in collaboration with the Ministry of Power, to coordinate stakeholder efforts towards meeting the 2030 target.
Significant investment commitments made during the RE-Invest Summit were also discussed, totaling ₹32 lakh crore and covering over 540 GW in renewable energy projects. Shri Joshi underscored that this commitment could be realized through strengthened partnerships between industry, government, and financial institutions.
Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy, Shripad Yesso Naik, highlighted the role of renewable energy in India’s path toward energy independence by 2047. He affirmed the government’s ongoing support for technological advancement and clean energy innovation.
Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, showcased Odisha’s potential in solar, wind, battery storage, and pumped storage projects, pledging the state’s cooperation with the Central Government in meeting national renewable energy goals.
Power Secretary Pankaj Agrawal addressed challenges in transmission and storage, urging participants to find actionable solutions. Meanwhile, MNRE Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to tackling sector challenges, noting that the Chintan Shivir was one of the first initiatives launched under Minister Joshi’s leadership to enhance policy development for renewable energy.
The event will include thematic sessions and collaborative discussions among industry leaders, financial institutions, CEOs, and government officials from across India. It serves as a vital step in aligning strategies and accelerating India’s renewable energy growth.
The Chintan Shivir represents a pivotal moment in India’s journey toward energy sustainability and the transition to a low-carbon economy, laying the groundwork for a cleaner, more sustainable future.
