Kolkata, 22nd August, 2024: In a significant step towards advancement of Renewable Energy in West Bengal, the Association of Renewable Energy Agencies of States (AREAS) and SwitchON Foundation jointly organized a workshop addressing the key advancements in renewable energy, with a focus on innovative technologies, financing models, and policy frameworks that can propel West Bengal to the forefront of sustainable energy development in India.

To limit global warming to 1.5°C, it is imperative that global emissions peak by 2025 and decrease by 43% by 2030. Achieving this goal requires doubling the adoption of renewable energy by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). India has made remarkable strides in this direction, with its solar power capacity increasing 30-fold over the past decade, from just 2.6 GW in 2014 to 87.2 GW today. The country has set ambitious targets to reach 500 GW of renewable energy capacity and ensure that 50% of its energy comes from renewables by 2030, with the ultimate goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. Key government initiatives, such as the PM Suryodaya Yojana, which aims to install 1 crore solar rooftops totaling 11.08 GW, and the PM-KUSUM scheme, which includes the deployment of 35 lakh solar pumps contributing to 30,800 MW, are driving this transformation. India’s renewable energy sector is witnessing rapid growth, fueled by these ambitious policies and projects.

Shri. S. Suresh Kumar, IAS, Chairman, Damodar Valley Corporation said, “Advancing renewable energy is not just a necessity, but a responsibility. By embracing innovation and fostering collaboration, we can lead the charge in transforming our energy landscape for generations to come.”

The session brought together an esteemed panel of dignitaries, policymakers, and industry leaders to deliberate on the future of renewable energy in the state. The discussions were centered around fostering collaboration among government bodies, banks and renewable energy companies and service providers to create a robust ecosystem that supports the growth of renewable energy.

The event was attended by Shri J K Jethani, Executive Director, AREAS- Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, GoI, Shri. S. Suresh Kumar, IAS, Chairman, Damodar Valley Corporation, Shri Sujan Sarkar MD West Bengal, State COoperative Bank, Shri. Sanjeev Jain, Advisor, SwitchON Foundation- Learnings from State Policies and Incentives for Renewable Energy Deployment, Shri. Manoj Mahata, Technical Expert, GIZ – Strategic (sectoral) roadmap for RE/DRE deployment and role of multi-sectoral planning/design/implementation, Smt. Amrita Ganguly, Executive Director, Deloitte – Policy Frameworks for Accelerating Renewable Energy Deployment and  Smt. Priyadarshini Karve, Chief Executive Officer, Clean Energy Access Network (CLEAN).

Shri J K Jethani, Executive Director, AREAS- Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, GoI said, “States have to play important role in achieving national targets of renewable energy capacity addition. By aligning with national schemes and programmes the efforts of the states considering the unique needs of our communities, can drive sustainable development, create jobs, and ensure that clean energy solutions reach every corner of states”

As of June 30, 2023, West Bengal ranks 28th in the nation with a cumulative solar capacity of 194.06 MW, representing just 1-2% of the capacity of leading states. In terms of solar power generation, the state is 23rd, producing 125.04 million units (MU). Despite these rankings, West Bengal is making strides in solar energy through key initiatives outlined in the 2024-25 Financial Budget. These include the installation of 150 MW of grid-connected solar pumps under the PM-KUSUM scheme, benefiting 20,000 farmers, and an additional 22.5 MW of off-grid pumps for 3,000 consumers. The budget also emphasizes expanding rooftop solar installations in schools, with 950 schools targeted—401 of which are already completed, and 610 more scheduled for the 2023-24 fiscal year.

The session highlighted key advancements in the renewable energy sector, focusing on innovative technologies, financing models, policy frameworks, and collaborative efforts. Key schemes to promote renewable energy  were showcased, emphasizing their potential to transform West Bengal’s energy landscape. The importance of financial support in scaling up renewable energy projects was underscored, with discussions on innovative business and financial models that can accelerate clean energy adoption. The session also explored the need for robust policy frameworks and incentives to attract investment and drive large-scale renewable energy deployment in the state. Additionally, the event stressed the significance of multi-sectoral collaboration, emphasizing the importance of a strategic roadmap for renewable energy deployment through comprehensive planning and implementation across various sectors.

Mr. Vinay Jaju, Executive Director, SwitchON Foundation said, “We have just over four years to limit global warming to 1.5°C, and the path to achieving this crucial target demands significant reductions in carbon emissions, with the goal of reaching net-zero by 2070. Renewable energy plays a pivotal role in this transition, and government initiatives and schems should be promoted in driving the widespread adoption of clean energy solutions across the country.”

The session concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to work together in positioning West Bengal as a leader in renewable energy. By harnessing innovative technologies, enabling access to financing, and implementing supportive policies, West Bengal can achieve sustainable energy goals, contributing significantly to India’s renewable energy targets.

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