Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: India’s renewable energy capacity is heavily concentrated in the southern and western regions, with seven states — Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana — comprising over 80 per cent of the total installed capacity.
This uneven distribution extends to other green industries, such as solar photovoltaic manufacturing, leading to concerns about the sustainability and equity of the country’s energy transition.
The facts came to light at a conference organised by an environmental think tank International Forum for Environment, Sustainability, and Technology (iFOREST) in the National Capital on August 13.
The event aimed to address the increasing regional disparity in renewable energy development across India and explore effective policies and strategies for the future. The national-level conference attracted diverse stakeholders, including national policymakers, state agencies, renewable energy industry leaders, and experts.
In his opening remarks, Chandra Bhushan, CEO and President of iFOREST, emphasised the importance of inclusive participation from all states in achieving India’s ambitious renewable energy, green hydrogen, and energy storage targets. He said, “As India advances towards its ambitious renewable energy goals, it’s vital that all states participate equally. This approach will not only prevent excessive investments in grid infrastructure but also promote equitable green growth, generate jobs, and enhance energy security.
“Achieving this balance requires significant reforms in policies such as Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) charges waiver and new policies that encourage balanced green growth across the country.”
